Indispensable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indispensable

[หŒษชndษชหˆspษ›nsษ™bษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in daily life

Absolutely necessary; essential. Something that cannot be done without.

Synonyms

crucial, essential, key, necessary, vital.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indispensable

This word is used when something is absolutely necessary and cannot be done without.

  • Water is indispensable for human survival.
  • Her role in the project was indispensable.
essential

This word is used when something is absolutely important and required for a particular purpose or for functioning.

  • Good nutrition is essential for healthy living.
  • It is essential to read the instructions before starting.
vital

This word is used when something is very important and absolutely necessary for life or success.

  • Oxygen is vital for breathing.
  • Her support was vital for his recovery.
necessary

This word is used when something is needed for a particular purpose or to achieve a certain result.

  • It is necessary to wear a seatbelt while driving.
  • A passport is necessary for international travel.
crucial

This word is best used when something is extremely important and can determine the success or failure of a situation.

  • It is crucial to meet the deadline.
  • Her input was crucial to the project's success.
key

This word is often used to describe something that is very important in achieving a goal or solving a problem.

  • Trust is the key to a strong relationship.
  • Education is the key to a better future.

Examples of usage

  • Water is indispensable for life to exist.
  • His role in the team is indispensable for its success.
Context #2 | Noun

work environment

A person or thing that is absolutely necessary or essential.

Synonyms

essential, must-have, necessity, requirement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indispensable

Used to describe something absolutely necessary and cannot be done without, often referring to tools, items, or personnel that are crucial to a particular task or situation.

  • For this project, your guidance will be indispensable.
  • Clean water is indispensable for human survival.
essential

Applied to things that are fundamental and important, often implying that without them, something cannot function properly or be complete. It is often used for things necessary for life, jobs, or studies.

  • Hydration is essential for maintaining good health.
  • Good communication skills are essential for a successful team.
necessity

Refers to the state or fact of being required for something, often used to emphasize the importance of something for existence, function, or a particular outcome.

  • Eating is a basic necessity for all living beings.
  • His presence in the meeting was a necessity for making any progress.
requirement

Describes something that is needed or demanded, often used in formal, technical, or academic settings to specify criteria or conditions that must be met.

  • A valid ID is a requirement for entering the building.
  • Meeting minimum education requirements is essential for job eligibility.
must-have

Typically used in more casual contexts to describe trendy or very useful items that one should own or acquire because they are very beneficial or highly recommended.

  • A smartphone is a must-have in today's digital age.
  • This cookbook is a must-have for anyone who loves baking.

Examples of usage

  • She was an indispensable part of the team.
  • In his absence, his role felt indispensable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, certain items are deemed 'indispensable,' such as rice in Asia or bread in European countries, emphasizing their importance in daily life.
  • The concept is often used in discussions about sustainability, highlighting items or practices crucial for environmental survival.
  • Famous figures in history, like Mahatma Gandhi, have been viewed as 'indispensable' for their leadership and inspirational roles in making significant changes.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Aristotle discussed the idea of 'essentials,' leading to debates about what is truly indispensable for a good life.
  • In existential philosophy, being indispensable often relates to finding meaning and purpose that one cannot choose to do without.
  • Thinkers throughout history have considered friendships and relationships as 'indispensable' for personal fulfillment.

Science

  • In ecology, certain species are described as 'indispensable' because their absence can lead to significant changes in their ecosystems.
  • Medical research often identifies certain nutrients, like vitamins, as 'indispensable' for human health and well-being.
  • The term is frequently used in discussions regarding technology, where certain tools may be deemed necessary for innovation and safety.

Origin of 'indispensable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'indispensabilis,' which means 'not able to be dispensed with or avoided.'
  • It entered the English language in the early 17th century, highlighting its necessity in communication.
  • The root 'dispense' refers to giving out, which ties back to the idea of needing something essential.

The word 'indispensable' originated from the Latin word 'indispensabilis', which means 'not to be taken away'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of indispensability has been recognized across various cultures and time periods, emphasizing the crucial nature of certain things or people. In contemporary usage, 'indispensable' continues to convey the idea of something that is essential and cannot be done without.


See also: dispensable, dispensation, dispenser, dispensing.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,880 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.