DISCRETIONARY Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words

discretionary

adjective

di-ˈskre-shə-ˌner-ē

Definition of discretionary

as in optional

subject to one's freedom of choice discretionary spending on luxuries dropped dramatically last year

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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 discretionary Trump has already cut discretionary spending for critical investments – education, environment, healthcare, and scientific research – that keep America strong, safe, and secure. — Wcco Staff, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 The useful figure is one that fits the discretionary money left after necessities and financial goals are covered. — Ashley Lynch, Kansas City Star, 8 Oct. 2026 Even if school funding keeps growing, future increases may go to other state priorities, with no guarantee of additional discretionary grants, Kapphahn added. — Chaewon Chung updated October 8, Sacbee.com, 8 Oct. 2026 For households already stretching every dollar, there may be no discretionary spending left to cut. — Sanya Carley, Time, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discretionary

Recent Examples of Synonyms for discretionary

Adjective

Our tester featured available comforts such as premium audio, a surround-view camera system, and optional carbon bucket seats.

— Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026
Expect clinicians to lean harder on body condition assessment, measured feeding and daily movement as standard of care rather than optional advice.

— Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of optional

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discretion

discretionary

discretions

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“Discretionary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretionary. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of discretionary

adjective

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