Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌvɒlənˈtɛrɪnəs/
KK: /vɑlˈʌntərɪnəs/
Definition
The state of doing something by choice or free will, rather than being forced to do it.
Example
The voluntariness of her decision made it more meaningful to her.
Conversation

I've been thinking about how important voluntariness is in our choices.

That’s true! It makes a big difference in how we feel about what we do.

Right? When we do things out of choice, it feels more fulfilling.

Exactly, it's all about the freedom to choose what we want.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
coercion
compulsion
constraint
Root Explanation
Voluntariness → It is formed from "voluntas" (meaning will or wish) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "voluntariness" refers to the state of being willing or having the quality of will.
Memory Tip
Think of 'will' ('voluntas') to remember that 'voluntariness' means the quality of being willing.
Visually Confused Words
unvoluntariness
involuntariness
unitariness
solitariness
salutariness
revolutionariness
mountainless
fountainless