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voluntary

adjective

/ˈvɒl ənˌtɛr i/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of voluntary

Undertaken willingly and without coercion or external pressure.
"The company implemented a voluntary retirement program for employees approaching their retirement age."

Detailed meaning of voluntary

It signifies an act or behavior that is performed out of one's own free will or choice, rather than being compelled or mandated by external factors. When something is described as voluntary, it implies that individuals have the autonomy and agency to make their own decisions and take responsibility for their actions. It conveys the absence of any force or obligation, suggesting that participation or involvement is entirely optional and driven by personal motivation or inclination. Voluntary actions often arise from a sense of altruism, compassion, or personal interest in contributing to a cause or fulfilling a particular objective. This term highlights the importance of individual freedom and the ability to make choices independently, without undue influence or restriction.

Example sentences containing voluntary

1. She made a voluntary decision to donate a portion of her salary to charity each month.
2. The organization offers voluntary opportunities for individuals to engage in community service.
3. His participation in the cleanup campaign was entirely voluntary; no one forced him to join.
4. We appreciate the voluntary efforts of the community members who organized the charity event.
5. The organization relies on the voluntary contributions of its members to sustain its operations.
6. The survey was conducted on a voluntary basis, allowing individuals to participate if they wished.

History and etymology of voluntary

The adjective 'voluntary' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'voluntarius,' which comes from 'voluntas,' meaning 'will' or 'choice.' In Latin, 'voluntarius' described actions or activities that were undertaken willingly and by choice, rather than being compelled or forced. Over time, this term was adopted into English as 'voluntary,' and it continues to describe actions, decisions, or contributions made willingly and without coercion or external pressure. The etymology of 'voluntary' emphasizes the role of individual will and choice in such actions, underscoring the concept of voluntary actions as those done of one's own free will.

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Further usage examples of voluntary

1. The employee's voluntary overtime work greatly contributed to the completion of the project.
2. They organized a voluntary blood donation drive to address the shortage in the local blood bank.
3. The organization promotes a culture of voluntary engagement and encourages employees to give back to society.
4. Many people offered voluntary assistance to the victims of the natural disaster.
5. The program offers voluntary counseling sessions for individuals dealing with mental health issues.
6. She made a voluntary decision to join the charity mission.
7. His voluntary contributions to the community were admirable.
8. The team's voluntary effort led to a successful project.
9. Voluntary work often brings a sense of fulfillment.
10. I attended the meeting on a voluntary basis.
11. Their voluntary cooperation improved the neighborhood.
12. The donation was entirely voluntary and generous.
13. Voluntary service is an essential part of our culture.
14. Many people offer their time on a voluntary basis.
15. The decision to join the club was purely voluntary.
16. She gave a voluntary speech at the charity event.
17. Voluntary actions can have a significant impact.
18. The organization relies on voluntary donations.
19. He devoted his life to voluntary service.
20. Voluntary initiatives can create positive change.
21. The program is open to voluntary participants.
22. The cleanup was a voluntary community effort.
23. Voluntary commitments are essential for progress.
24. Their voluntary support made a real difference.
25. She accepted the challenge on a purely voluntary basis.