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Synonyms for

Discretionary

Adjective / dɪˈskreʃʌˌneri: / Another word for discretionary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Discretionary means left to someone's own judgement or choice.

Synonyms & similar words

discretional optional elective voluntary selective discretional non-compulsory unrestricted arbitrary unlimited unspecified unconstrained unbound unregulated uncontrolled freewheeling open-ended free flexible modifiable adaptable

Synonyms by register

Formal

optional elective unrestricted discretionary

Informal

up to you your call whatever you want your choice

Antonyms

mandatory compulsory required obligatory necessary essential forced

Common collocations

  • discretionary spending
  • discretionary income
  • discretionary fund
  • discretionary powers
  • discretionary time
  • discretionary basis
  • discretionary decision

Word family

noun discretion
adverb discretionarily

Usage note

Often used in financial contexts to describe spending or income that is not essential. Can also refer to powers or decisions that are left to an individual's judgment.

Compare "discretionary" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The teacher gave the students discretionary time to work on their projects.
  2. The company allows its employees to take discretionary sick days.
  3. The judge has discretionary power to decide the punishment for the defendant.
  4. The CEO has discretionary income to invest in the stock market.
  5. The principal has discretionary authority to approve school events.

Quotes

  • The more discretionary time you have, the happier you will be. - Gretchen Rubin
  • The great thing about being a writer is that you can work from anywhere, but the terrible thing about being a writer is that you can work from anywhere. It's all discretionary time. - Jodi Picoult
  • My interest in life comes from setting myself huge, apparently unachievable challenges and trying to rise above them... from the perspective of wanting to live life to the full, I felt that I had to attempt it. - Richard Branson

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