Electively

Electively describes an action or choice that is made voluntarily, intentionally, and not as a requirement or obligation. It signifies a decision driven by personal preference, desire, or a conscious assessment of options, rather than external pressure or pre-determined necessity. It implies a degree of freedom and agency in the selection process, highlighting the individual's ability to choose among alternatives. The action is undertaken as a matter of free will, with the individual weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of the chosen course, which makes it contrast with actions compelled by laws or enforced by policies. Decisions made electively are often associated with increased autonomy and control over one's circumstances.

Electively meaning with examples

• The company offered employees elective overtime, allowing individuals to choose whether they wanted to work extra hours. This flexibility ensured that staff could balance their workload with personal commitments, showing the company's understanding that sometimes people may not want to work, even if offered more money, and that the company respected their personal time. The response to the offer showed a variety of different decisions, demonstrating the differences in the lives and circumstances of employees.
• Students could take elective courses in the university curriculum based on their interests and career aspirations, offering them a chance to tailor their education. Some students chose to expand their knowledge, while others focused on areas that would help them get jobs. This process shows students choosing a curriculum based on their interests. The university recognized the varying levels of interest students have in particular fields.
• Patients could electively undergo cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance, taking control of their physical self-image. The procedure's elective nature emphasized their personal desire for aesthetic improvement. The doctor offered both the medical information and the possible drawbacks of the operation, allowing patients to make an informed choice about the best course of action for them, which highlights the choice involved.
• Individuals can contribute electively to a retirement plan, choosing the amount and frequency of their contributions. This allows flexibility to adjust savings based on their financial situation and personal goals. The ability to change these contributions at will, with the advice of a financial professional, allows for the individual to keep their life moving as it changes while still planning for the future.