voluntarily

word

/ˌvɑɫənˈtɛɹəɫi/
/vˌɒləntˈɛɹəli/

Definition

When you do something voluntarily, you choose to do it by your own free will, without being forced or ordered by anyone else.

Usage & Nuances

'Voluntarily' is formal and often used in legal, academic, or official settings; it emphasizes that the action is not required or forced. Common with verbs like 'leave,' 'donate,' and 'confess.' Less common in casual speech—people might say 'by choice' or 'willingly.'

Example Sentences

You can join the project voluntarily.

basic

He left the company voluntarily.

basic

She donated money voluntarily.

basic

I wasn’t fired; I resigned voluntarily because I needed a change.

natural

Nobody asked him to help—he did it voluntarily.

natural

All the witnesses came forward voluntarily, making the investigation much easier.

natural