Synonyms for

Mandatory

Verb / ˈmændʌˌtɔ:ri: / Another word for mandatory — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

required by law or rules; compulsory

Synonyms & similar words

compulsory mandate mandatary required compulsory obligatory required necessary essential requisite prescribed enforced compulsory binding imperative forced coercive involuntary unavoidable ineluctable inescapable statutory legal regulatory

Synonyms by register

Formal

compulsory obligatory required incumbent

Informal

gotta have to needed a must

Literary

ordained prescribed

Antonyms

optional voluntary discretionary unnecessary unobligatory unrequired

Common collocations

  • mandatory retirement
  • mandatory sentence
  • mandatory insurance
  • mandatory testing
  • mandatory minimum
  • mandatory participation
  • mandatory reporting

Word family

noun mandate
verb mandate
adverb mandatorily

Usage note

Mandatory implies a strict requirement, often by law or authority. It is generally used in formal contexts and should not be confused with 'mandate', which can be a command or an authorization.

Example sentences

  1. It is mandatory to wear a seatbelt while driving.
  2. The school has made it mandatory to wear uniforms.
  3. The company has a mandatory training program for new employees.
  4. Vaccination may become mandatory in some countries.
  5. The government has made it mandatory for citizens to pay taxes.

Quotes

  • Freedom means the right to keep people from doing wrong to you. It does not mean the right to do wrong to others. - Barry Goldwater
  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. - Nelson Mandela
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do. - Steve Jobs

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