Synonyms for

Imperative

Verb / ˌɪˈmperʌtɪv / Another word for imperative — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Imperative means very important or necessary to do.

Synonyms & similar words

jussivemood beseeching imperativemood imperativeform crucial vital essential important mandatory compulsory necessary pressing urgent critical indispensable paramount requisite needful significant required pertinent relevant decisive key

Synonyms by register

Formal

compulsory obligatory essential crucial

Informal

gotta have to must-do key

Literary

paramount indispensable

Antonyms

optional unimportant trivial secondary unnecessary discretionary

Common collocations

  • urgent imperative
  • moral imperative
  • economic imperative
  • political imperative
  • strategic imperative
  • clear imperative
  • felt imperative

Word family

noun imperative
adjective imperative

Usage note

Often used to express a strong need or a command. Can be used as both a noun and an adjective, with the noun form referring to something that is essential or a command.

Example sentences

  1. It is imperative that you brush your teeth twice a day.
  2. The doctor said it was imperative to take the medicine every day.
  3. It is imperative to follow the rules of the road when driving.
  4. It is imperative to drink plenty of water when it is hot outside.
  5. The teacher said it was imperative to study for the test if you want to do well.

Quotes

  • It is imperative to be happy alone, to be comfortable with yourself.
  • It is imperative to be able to laugh at yourself.
  • It is imperative to have a good relationship with your parents.

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