01
optional
Available as a free choice; not strictly required or prescribed.
example
Ein Dessert ist im Menüpreis enthalten, die Käseplatte ist optional.
A dessert is included in the menu price; the cheese platter is optional.
optional
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'optional' belongs to the word family of 'die Option' (the option). If you have an option, meaning a choice, then that thing is optional.
EXAMPLE
Die zusätzliche Versicherung für den Mietwagen ist optional.
The additional insurance for the rental car is optional.
Use in a sentence
'Optional' can stand as an adjective before a noun ('ein optionaler Kurs' — an optional course) or as an adverb referring to the whole sentence. As an adverb, it often stands at the beginning of the sentence or next to the verb.
EXAMPLE
Die Teilnahme an dem Workshop ist optional.
Participation in the workshop is optional.
Typical collocations
The word is frequently used with offers, services, or parts of a product. Typical combinations are 'optionales Zubehör' (optional accessories), 'optionales Fach' (optional subject), 'optionaler Ausflug' (optional excursion), or 'optionale Ausstattung' (optional equipment).
EXAMPLE
Das Auto hat viele optionale Extras, die den Preis erhöhen.
The car has many optional extras that increase the price.
Compare with
optional vs notwendig
necessary
'notwendig' and 'optional' are clear opposites. 'notwendig' means that something must be done, used, or present. So it is not freely selectable. 'optional' means that you can do or choose it, but you do not have to. The difference is especially important with forms, courses, tasks, or technical settings. A necessary field must be filled in; an optional field may be left blank.
optional
Die zweite Übung ist optional, wenn du schon genug verstanden hast.
The second exercise is optional if you have already understood enough.
notwendig
Für den Zugang zum Büro ist eine Karte notwendig.
A card is necessary to access the office.
In real life
Loading video examples...