elective

Planned for a suitable time, rather than done immediately as an emergency.

• The hospital postponed elective surgery.
• Her elective operation is scheduled for next month.
• Even necessary treatment can be elective if it can safely wait.

Similar words: nonemergency, scheduled

Opposites: emergency

Common phrases: elective surgery, elective operation, elective procedure

Chosen freely rather than required.

• Music is an elective subject.
• Her insurance did not cover the elective procedure.
• Students can choose two elective courses.

Similar words: optional, voluntary

Opposites: compulsory, required

Common phrases: elective course, elective surgery, elective procedure, elective subject

Connected with choosing people for positions by voting.

• She holds an elective office.
• The country once had an elective monarchy.
• These elective positions are filled by a public vote.

Similar words: electoral

Common phrases: elective office, elective position, elective system

Something you can choose, especially a class you do not have to take.

• I took an elective in art.
• Which electives are available next semester?
• The college offers several electives in history.

How to use it: an elective in something (He chose an elective in photography.)

Similar words: optional course

Common phrases: take an elective, choose an elective, history elective