Which of the following types of expenses is most likely to be categorized as discretionary?

Discretionary expenses are those that are not essential for survival or basic functioning and are instead based on personal preferences or lifestyle choices. Clothing, while necessary to some extent, often falls into this category because consumers can choose to buy higher-end items or forgo certain expenditures altogether. This kind of spending is typically flexible and can be adjusted based on one's financial situation or priorities.

For example, someone may decide to purchase clothing based on trends or personal taste, allowing for variations in spending over time. In contrast, gas for a car, rent payments, and health insurance are considered essential costs that must be paid to maintain basic transportation, housing, and health needs, making them non-discretionary. These expenses are typically fixed and necessary, unlike clothing, where spending can be limited or postponed.