Necessary: meaning, definitions and examples
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necessary
[ ˈnɛsɪˌsɛri ]
in a situation where something must happen or be done
required to be done; essential. In a situation where something must happen or be done. The government has taken the necessary steps to ensure public safety.
Synonyms
crucial, essential, mandatory, required, vital.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| necessary |
Used for something that is needed for a specific situation or task, but not always of utmost importance.
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| essential |
Used for something that is absolutely necessary and fundamental, often for survival or basic functioning.
|
| required |
Used to describe something that is necessary according to specific standards or expectations.
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| vital |
Used for something that is extremely important or essential for the continued existence or success of something.
|
| crucial |
Used when something is extremely important and can determine the outcome of a situation.
|
| mandatory |
Used for something that is required by law or rules, implying no flexibility.
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Examples of usage
- The necessary paperwork must be completed before starting the project.
- It is necessary to wear a helmet when riding a bike.
- Regular exercise is necessary for a healthy lifestyle.
something that is needed or required
something that is required or indispensable. An essential or indispensable thing. Water is a basic necessity of life.
Synonyms
essential, must-have, need, requirement, requisite.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| necessary |
Used to express something that is needed or required in order to achieve a specific result or condition.
|
| essential |
Emphasizes something that is absolutely needed and very important, often critical.
|
| requirement |
Used in more formal or official contexts to denote something that is mandatory or a prerequisite.
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| need |
General term that expresses a requirement or necessity for something; can refer to both tangible and intangible things.
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| requisite |
Often used in formal contexts to denote something necessary for a particular purpose or outcome.
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| must-have |
Often used in informal contexts to denote something that is very popular and highly desired, often referring to items or experiences.
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Examples of usage
- Food, shelter, and clothing are basic necessities.
- Access to clean water is a necessity for all living beings.
- Learning to read and write is a necessity in today's society.
Translations
Translations of the word "necessary" in other languages:
🇵🇹 necessário
🇮🇳 आवश्यक
🇩🇪 notwendig
🇮🇩 diperlukan
🇺🇦 необхідний
🇵🇱 konieczny
🇯🇵 必要な (hitsuyōna)
🇫🇷 nécessaire
🇪🇸 necesario
🇹🇷 gerekli
🇰🇷 필요한 (piryohan)
🇸🇦 ضروري (dharuri)
🇨🇿 nezbytný
🇸🇰 nevyhnutný
🇨🇳 必要的 (bìyào de)
🇸🇮 nujen
🇮🇸 nauðsynlegur
🇰🇿 қажетті
🇬🇪 აუცილებელი (aucilebeli)
🇦🇿 lazım
🇲🇽 necesario
Etymology
The word 'necessary' originated from the Latin word 'necessarius,' which means unavoidable, indispensable, or necessary. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of necessity has been a fundamental aspect of human life throughout history, influencing decision-making, behavior, and societal structures. The importance of recognizing and fulfilling necessities has been a driving force behind progress and development in various fields.