at will
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: As one chooses or pleases; freely, without restriction or control.
Usage
This adverb modifies a verb to indicate that the action is performed according to one's own desire, without external constraints. It is often used in formal or legal contexts. - The landlord can terminate the lease at will. - After the gates were opened, the animals could graze at will.
Examples
- The security pass allows you to enter and exit the building at will.
- He is a talented artist who can switch between styles at will.
- The contract states that employment is at will, meaning either party can end it at any time.
Advanced Usage
- "At-will" (Adjective): Used attributively, often hyphenated, to describe a status or arrangement based on unrestricted choice.
- She has an at-will employment status.
- The doctrine of at-will tenancy.
Variants and Related Words
- At one's discretion: According to one's own judgment.
- At one's pleasure: As one wishes (more formal, sometimes archaic).
Synonyms
- Freely
- As one pleases
- Voluntarily
- Without hindrance
Related Phrases
- Terminate at will: To end (e.g., a contract, employment) without cause or prior notice.
- Most private sector jobs in this state are terminate at will.
- Fire at will: A military command to shoot without waiting for a specific order; used figuratively to mean "proceed freely."
- The general gave the order to fire at will.
Adverb
- as one chooses or pleases
- he can roam the neighborhood at will