optionally

adverb

as in alternatively

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of optionally In an example video, Google demonstrates how the user can speak long, complex instructions, optionally referring to files on the local computer, and have Gemini synthesize a response directly into a document or email. — Paul Monckton, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 This partnership is set to provide a means of churning out large numbers of autonomous or optionally crewed ships in American shipyards. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 26 July 2026 Remote control operation, likely for maneuvering and parking the trailer via app without the tow vehicle, and multi-stage water filtration will be available optionally. — New Atlas, 23 July 2026 Both sizes are optionally available with LTE connectivity in addition to the standard Bluetooth for an extra $50. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 22 July 2026 The 16-way adjustable sport seats are standard, while performance seats shelled in carbon fiber—presenting more aggressive thigh and shoulder bolsters—are optionally available. — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 8 May 2026 Many Americans falsely conflate Sikh turbans, which are religious garments worn by men to protect their uncut hair and considered mandatory for everyday wear, with turbans worn by Muslims optionally and largely for cultural reasons. — Susie Neilson, San Francisco Chronicle, 5 Mar. 2026 Holes can be cut in the fabric to insert garden plants, and optionally the fabric can be covered with mulch to hide it. — David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 15 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optionally
  1. alternatively
  2. either
  3. instead
  4. alternately
Adverb
  • Might that be because this particular partner would include politicians prone to grandstanding — or, alternatively, focused more on mundane issues such as schools and crime than on horse racing?
    — Stephen J. K. Walters, Baltimore Sun, 12 Aug. 2026
  • That Amazon does not hit new all-time highs between now and late September, or alternatively is unlikely to fall through its pre-earnings levels.
    — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of alternatively
Adverb
  • Parking spaces aren’t getting bigger either, so smaller cars can be easier to park.
    — Beth Livesay, AJC.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • That wasn't the last time that Jeanie fired one of her siblings, either.
    — Bryan Toporek, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of either
Adverb
  • Yet Google has always noted that the G6 is rarely about ultimate power; instead it is optimised for on-device AI.
    — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • The Athletic reported on Tuesday that the England Under-18 international had declined to sign a professional contract with Rovers, who instead extended his scholarship agreement into a third year.
    — James McNicholas, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of instead
Adverb
  • Beat flour mixture into butter mixture, in 3 batches, on medium-low speed alternately with milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture, until well combined after each addition.
    — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Flitting between deadpan sorrow and impassioned romance, Bridgers’ album is alternately spooky, hilarious, mysterious and sneakily moving.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of alternately

Browse Nearby Words

optional
optionally
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Cite this Entry

“Optionally.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optionally. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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