Necessity: meaning, definitions and examples
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necessity
[ nɪˈsɛsɪti ]
in daily life
The quality or state of being necessary; something that is necessary or indispensable; a condition or situation in which something is required or must be done.
Synonyms
essential, must-have, need, requirement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| necessity |
Used to describe something that is indispensable or very important for survival or basic functioning. Typically used in formal or serious contexts.
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| essential |
Used to refer to something crucial or absolutely needed for a particular purpose. Often used in both formal and informal contexts.
|
| requirement |
Used to describe something that is necessary according to rules, laws, or specific conditions. Typically used in official or formal contexts.
|
| need |
Used to describe something required or wanted. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
|
| must-have |
Used to describe something that is very useful or desirable in a particular situation. Usually used in informal contexts and often in marketing.
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Examples of usage
- It is a necessity to have food and water to survive.
- Education is a necessity for a better future.
- Shelter is a necessity for protection from the elements.
legal
An unavoidable requirement or need for a certain action or result; the state of being compelled to act in a certain way under the law.
Synonyms
compulsion, imperative, obligation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| necessity |
Use this word when talking about something that is essential or very important. It is something that you cannot avoid or do without.
|
| compulsion |
This word is often used when referring to a strong, irresistible urge to do something, sometimes against one's will. It can have a negative connotation.
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| obligation |
This word is used in situations where there is a duty or commitment to do something, often because of a law, promise, or moral principle.
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| imperative |
This is used when something is of utmost importance and must be done. It conveys a sense of urgency.
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Examples of usage
- The defense argued that the action taken was a necessity to prevent harm.
- The judge recognized the necessity of the defendant's actions.
philosophy
The quality of being logically required or inevitable; something that cannot be otherwise.
Synonyms
certainty, inescapability, inevitability.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| necessity |
Commonly used when talking about something that is absolutely needed or indispensable.
|
| inevitability |
Used to describe something that is bound to happen or cannot be avoided.
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| certainty |
Used to express something known for sure or without a doubt.
|
| inescapability |
Describes a situation where there is no way to avoid or escape. Has a slightly negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- In his argument, he emphasized the necessity of certain truths.
- The philosopher explored the concept of necessity in human decision-making.
Translations
Translations of the word "necessity" in other languages:
🇵🇹 necessidade
🇮🇳 आवश्यकता
🇩🇪 Notwendigkeit
🇮🇩 kebutuhan
🇺🇦 необхідність
🇵🇱 potrzeba
🇯🇵 必要
🇫🇷 nécessité
🇪🇸 necesidad
🇹🇷 gereklilik
🇰🇷 필요
🇸🇦 ضرورة
🇨🇿 potřeba
🇸🇰 potreba
🇨🇳 必要
🇸🇮 potreba
🇮🇸 nauðsyn
🇰🇿 қажеттілік
🇬🇪 საჭიროება
🇦🇿 lazım
🇲🇽 necesidad
Etymology
The word 'necessity' originated from the Latin word 'necessitas', which means 'need' or 'compulsion'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of necessity has been explored in various fields, including philosophy, law, and everyday life, highlighting its essential role in human existence and decision-making.