By choice Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Personal Preference Use 'by choice' when expressing someone's personal preference or decision. She became a vegetarian by choice. Pro Tip 2/3Not Forced 'By choice' suggests there's no external pressure or obligation involved in the decision. He's staying late at the office by choice. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Tone Saying 'by choice' can carry a tone of pride or satisfaction with the decision made. She's single by choice and very happy.