35 Other Ways to Say “Nice-to-Have” (With Examples)

35 Other ways to say “Nice-to-Have” can make your message clearer and more meaningful when talking about a feature that isn’t essential but still valuable. Instead of using the phrase loosely, try calling it a nice addition, a thoughtful extra, or something that adds a polished touch. These terms show that the element brings real value, even if it’s not a must-have.

What Does “Nice-to-Have” Mean?

Nice-to-have refers to something that is not necessary but would be pleasant or advantageous to have. It’s typically used when discussing additional features, options, or attributes that aren’t essential but enhance the overall value of a situation, product, or experience. It’s often contrasted with things that are must-haves, which are essential or non-negotiable.

When to Use “Nice-to-Have”?

Nice-to-have is used when talking about things that would improve a situation but aren’t strictly required. It can refer to non-essential items or features that could provide extra convenience, value, or appeal. You might use it when giving feedback, describing product features, or discussing potential upgrades.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Nice-to-Have”?

Yes, nice-to-have is both professional and polite, especially in business and product discussions. It conveys that the item or feature being discussed isn’t critical but still adds value. It’s less formal than essential but still maintains a professional tone.

Pros and Cons of Using “Nice-to-Have”

Pros:

• A polite way to express something that isn’t crucial.
• Softens requests or expectations, making them feel less demanding.
• Helps prioritize items or features based on their importance.

Cons:

• It can be vague if not clarified.
• Might downplay important but not urgent details.
• Overusing it could make things feel too optional when they may be more important than implied.

Nice-to-Have Synonyms:

• Optional
• Bonus
• Added Benefit
• Desirable
• Good-to-Have
• Not Essential, but Helpful
• Luxury
• Additional Perk
• Extra Feature
• Enhancement
• Convenience
• Perk
• Complementary
• \Value-Add
• In Addition
• Non-Essential Extra
• Unnecessary, but Beneficial
• Sought-After
• A Wish List Item
• Supplementary
• Flair
• Additive
• Enhancement Option
• An Advantage
• Extra Touch
• A Convenient Option
• A Nice Addition
• A Treat
• Not Crucial but Helpful
• An Auxiliary Feature
• Bonus Material
• Complement
• A Touch of Something Extra
• A Little Extra
• Not Required, but Appreciated

Optional

Meaning:
Implies that something is not mandatory, but it’s available if desired.

Explanation:
Often used to describe choices or features that are available but not required.

Example:
The advanced features are optional, but they can improve your experience.

Best Use:
Professional settings or when talking about choices.

Worst Use:
In casual or informal situations, it may sound too rigid.

Tone:
Neutral, practical.

Bonus

Meaning:
Something extra that adds value but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
A bonus suggests an added benefit that’s appreciated but not needed.

Example:
You’ll also get a bonus report with additional insights.

Best Use:
Informal or marketing contexts, when discussing extra perks.

Worst Use:
Formal settings where precision is required.

Tone:
Positive, casual, extra.

Added Benefit

Meaning:
An extra advantage or feature that enhances a situation.

Explanation:
Focuses on how something improves or enriches the overall experience.

Example:
The upgraded features offer added benefits, like faster processing speeds.

Best Use:
Professional or product-related discussions.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations may sound too business-oriented.

Tone:
Positive, informative.

Desirable

Meaning:
Something that is wanted or appealing but not necessary.

Explanation:
It suggests that the item or feature is attractive and beneficial, but it’s not essential.

Example:
A strong internet connection is desirable for video calls, but not mandatory.

Best Use:
In discussions about preferences or desired features.

Worst Use:
When the item is crucial.

Tone:
Polite, encouraging.

Good-to-Have

Meaning:
Similar to nice-to-have, this term means something that would be beneficial but not essential.

Explanation:
It is often used to express an idea or feature that would be nice to have, but it won’t make or break the situation.

Example:
A second monitor is good to have if you’re working on multiple projects at once

Best Use:
Casual or semi-formal conversations, especially in tech or office contexts.

Worst Use:
Formal settings or when discussing absolute necessities.

Tone:
Casual, relaxed.

Not Essential, but Helpful

Meaning:
This highlights that something isn’t required but still offers assistance.

Explanation:
A clear way to explain that the feature or item makes things easier but isn’t crucial.

Example:
A manual isn’t essential, but helpful if you’re new to the software.

Best Use:
Professional or instructional contexts.

Worst Use:
When discussing things that should be essential.

Tone:
Polite, accommodating.

Luxury

Meaning:
Something extra or additional that is appreciated but not required.

Explanation:
Used when referring to features or items that are indulgent but not necessary for basic function.

Example:
A leather seat in the car is a luxury, but cloth works just as well.

Best Use:
When describing products or services in a more premium context.

Worst Use:
Professional discussions where practicality is the focus.

Tone:
Upscale, indulgent.

Additional Perk

Meaning:
An extra benefit or advantage that isn’t required but adds value.

Explanation:
Often used in marketing or customer service to highlight non-essential extras.

Example:
With the premium membership, you’ll enjoy an additional perk: priority customer service.

Best Use:
Marketing or when discussing membership benefits.

Worst Use:
When you need to describe something essential.

Tone:
Positive, promotional.

Extra Feature

Meaning:
Something additional that enhances the overall offering but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
This emphasizes that the feature or addition is an enhancement rather than a requirement.

Example:
The new software update includes extra features, such as faster loading times.

Best Use:
In product descriptions or feature lists.

Worst Use:
When describing something that should be included.

Tone:
Neutral, informative.

Enhancement

Meaning:
An improvement that adds value but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
It refers to making something better or more enjoyable, though it’s not crucial.

Example:
This new version includes several enhancements, making the app easier to use.

Best Use:
When discussing updates or improvements in technology or services.

Worst Use:
When something is essential and must be included.

Tone:
Neutral, professional.

Convenience

Meaning:
Something that makes a task easier but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
Used when referring to items or features that add comfort or efficiency but aren’t required.

Example:
A remote control is a convenience, but you can still use the buttons manually.

Best Use:
Describing small, helpful additions in both work and personal settings.

Worst Use:
When the feature is added.

Tone:
Friendly, practical.

Perk

Meaning:
A special advantage or benefit that is extra but appreciated.

Explanation:
Often used to describe added value in an offer or situation.

Example:
Free snacks are a nice perk when working late.

Best Use:
In discussions about benefits or rewards, this often occurs in casual work settings.

Worst Use:
In serious or formal discussions where every feature is critical.

Tone:
Casual, friendly.

Complementary

Meaning:
Something that adds to or completes the experience but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
Used when describing something that pairs well with the core elements but isn’t essential.

Example:
The complementary accessories make the system more efficient, but you can get by without them.

Best Use:
Professional or sales contexts.

Worst Use:
When referring to something essential or central.

Tone:
Polite, professional.

Value-Add

Meaning:
Something extra that contributes value but is not essential.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests something that enhances the overall offering but is not mandatory.

Example:
The new training materials are a value-add to the existing program.

Best Use:
In business and product discussions where extra benefits are highlighted.

Worst Use:
In contexts where something is truly indispensable.

Tone:
Professional, beneficial.

In Addition

Meaning:
Something extra, added on top of the main offering, but not required.

Explanation:
A simple way to introduce something that enhances a situation or product.

Example:
In addition, you’ll receive a free trial for the first month.

Best Use:
When discussing optional extras or additions.

Worst Use:
When you’re describing something necessary.

Tone:
Neutral, informative.

Non-Essential Extra

Meaning:
A clear description that something is additional but not needed for core functionality.

Explanation:
This helps to distinguish between what is necessary and what is not.

Example:
A second phone line is a non-essential extra, useful but not required.

Best Use:
Professional settings where clarification is needed.

Worst Use:
When the item is something that should be included.

Tone:
Clear, direct.

Unnecessary, but Beneficial

Meaning:
Something that’s not needed but provides a positive effect.

Explanation:
This phrase communicates that the item or feature is a bonus, not mandatory.

Example:
The extra documentation is unnecessary but beneficial for reference.

Best Use:
When describing helpful but optional additions.

Worst Use:
When it could be perceived as needed.

Tone:
Polite, understanding.

Sought-After

Meaning:
Something desirable and wanted but not necessary.

Explanation:
This term emphasizes that the feature or benefit is popular or in demand but not essential.

Example:
A spacious balcony is a sought-after feature in city apartments.

Best Use:
When discussing something highly desirable in a competitive context, like real estate or product features.

Worst Use:
When referring to something that should be essential.

Tone:
Descriptive, positive.

A Wish List Item

Meaning:
A feature or option that people would like to have but don’t need.

Explanation:
This phrase is often used when talking about non-essential features that are desirable.

Example:
An automated system is more of a wish list item, but it would streamline our workflow.

Best Use:
When discussing things that are nice to have but don’t have to be prioritized.

Worst Use:
When discussing something that could be vital to the task or objective.

Tone:
Casual, optimistic.

Supplementary

Meaning:
Something additional that complements the main offering but isn’t crucial.

Explanation:
Refers to something that enhances but isn’t necessary to the core functionality.

Example:
The supplementary services are available, but you can still use the app without them.

Best Use:
Professional settings, when explaining extra options or services.

Worst Use:
When something is crucial to the core product or service.

Tone:
Neutral, formal.

Flair

Meaning:
A stylish or attractive extra that adds character but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
This word implies that the addition is more about aesthetics or enhancing the experience rather than being a requirement.

Example:
The custom designs give the packaging a unique flair, making it stand out on shelves.

Best Use:
When discussing creative or visual additions that are attractive but not critical.

Worst Use:
When referring to functional or essential features.

Tone:
Creative, descriptive.

Additive

Meaning:
An extra element that adds to the whole but is not necessary.

Explanation:
This term conveys that the feature or option is not mandatory but enhances the overall offering.

Example:
The extra analysis tool is an additive that makes decision-making easier.

Best Use:
When discussing features in business or technology.

Worst Use:
When describing something central or non-optional.

Tone:
Professional, analytical.

Enhancement Option

Meaning:
A feature or service that improves the experience but isn’t required.

Explanation:
Refers to a choice that can enhance or improve the overall experience, but doesn’t need to be chosen.

Example:
The live chat support is an enhancement option available for faster service.

Best Use:
When explaining optional upgrades or extra features.

Worst Use:
When discussing something vital to the core offering.

Tone:
Neutral, professional.

An Advantage

Meaning:
A quality that provides a beneficial edge but isn’t essential.

Explanation:
Focuses on something that improves a situation but isn’t necessary for success.

Example:
Being bilingual is an advantage in the role, but not a requirement.

Best Use:
When discussing skills, qualifications, or perks that are helpful but not mandatory.

Worst Use:
When describing something essential to the task.

Tone:
Positive, flexible.

Extra Touch

Meaning:
Something small but valuable that adds charm or appeal to an experience.

Explanation:
Implies that the feature or addition is a nice little bonus, making the experience more enjoyable.

Example:
The handwritten note was an extra touch that made the gift feel special.

Best Use:
When talking about thoughtful gestures or enhancements.

Worst Use:
When referring to something that should be crucial.

Tone:
Warm, personal.

A Convenient Option

Meaning:
Something that makes life easier but isn’t necessary.

Explanation:
Refers to an option that provides ease or comfort but isn’t critical to success.

Example:
The mobile app is a convenient option for managing your account on the go.

Best Use:
When describing optional features or tools that make tasks easier.

Worst Use:
When referring to core necessities.

Tone:
Helpful and accommodating.

A Nice Addition

Meaning:
Something that improves or complements but isn’t essential.

Explanation:
This phrase suggests an enhancement that’s not critical but adds value.

Example:
The updated graphics are a nice addition to the game, making it more visually appealing.

Best Use:
When discussing upgrades or extra features.

Worst Use:
When describing necessary things.

Tone:
Friendly, casual.

A Treat

Meaning:
Something enjoyable or special, but not necessary.

Explanation:
A term often used to describe something enjoyable or rewarding, though it’s not essential.

Example:
The spa day was a treat I didn’t expect but enjoyed.

Best Use:
Casual conversations, especially regarding leisure or luxury items.

Worst Use:
When referring to something that should be considered important.

Tone:
Warm, personal.

Not Crucial but Helpful

Meaning:
Highlights that something isn’t required, but it adds benefit.

Explanation:
A balanced way to explain that a feature or option is useful but not necessary.

Example:
The extra time for revisions is not crucial, but helpful if you want to polish the project.

Best Use:
In both professional and informal settings, when clarifying priorities.

Worst Use:
When something must be prioritized.

Tone:
Professional, balanced.

An Auxiliary Feature

Meaning:
A secondary feature that enhances the main offering but is not necessary.

Explanation:
Describes something supplementary, serving to improve the overall experience without being essential.

Example:
Voice control is an auxiliary feature that makes the device more user-friendly.

Best Use:
Technical or product-related discussions.

Worst Use:
When something is central to the product’s function.

Tone:
Technical, informative.

Bonus Material

Meaning:
Extra content or resources that enhance the experience but are not required.

Explanation:
Often used in educational or entertainment contexts to describe content that complements the main offering.

Example:
The course comes with bonus material, such as downloadable worksheets and additional videos.

Best Use:
In education, media, or course-related contexts.

Worst Use:
When something must be part of the essential content.

Tone:
Engaging, supplementary.

Complement

Meaning:
Something that completes or enhances but is not necessary.

Explanation:
Describe something that enhances or pairs well with the main item but isn’t required.

Example:
The side dishes are a perfect complement to the main course, adding variety.

Best Use:
In product pairings or when discussing supplementary items.

Worst Use:
When something is a necessity.

Tone:
Elegant, descriptive.

A Touch of Something Extra

Meaning:
Something small and extra that enhances the experience.

Explanation:
It is a term often used to describe minor additions that make something feel more special.

Example:
The custom engraving adds a touch of something extra to the gift.

Best Use:
In personal gifts or experiences where small details matter.

Worst Use:
When referring to something that should be fundamental.

Tone:
Personal, thoughtful.

A Little Extra

Meaning:
A small addition that provides additional benefit but isn’t needed.

Explanation:
Used to express that the feature or benefit adds value without being essential.

Example:
The complimentary drinks are a little extra that make the evening even better.

Best Use:
In casual settings or when offering minor enhancements.

Worst Use:
When discussing necessary items or features.

Tone:
Friendly, light.

Not Required, but Appreciated

Meaning:
A way to say that something isn’t needed but would be beneficial.

Explanation:
It strikes a balance by expressing that the item or feature is desirable without implying it’s crucial.

Example:
Your feedback isn’t required, but it’s appreciated.

Best Use:
Professional or collaborative environments, when requesting feedback or contributions.

Worst Use:
When something is necessary.

Tone:
Gracious, considerate.

Conclusion

There are many ways to express the idea of something being nice, depending on the context, tone, and setting. From casual phrases like a bonus to more formal expressions such as an enhancement option, you can tailor your language to fit any situation. The key is to balance the idea that while something isn’t crucial, it does offer value. Whether you’re discussing product features, work perks, or personal requests, these alternatives give you the flexibility to communicate respectfully and with nuance.