Synonyms for

Necessity

Verb / nʌˈsesʌti: / / nʌˈsesɪti: / Another word for necessity — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state or fact of being required or indispensable.

Synonyms & similar words

essential inessential necessary requirement requisite essential requirement need must obligation demand requisite prerequisite condition stipulation constraint compulsion urgency exigency emergency crisis want desire wish

Synonyms by register

Formal

requirement imperative prerequisite essential

Informal

need must-have gotta-have

Literary

indispensable requisite

Antonyms

luxury optionality choice desire want surplus excess

Common collocations

  • a matter of necessity
  • economic necessity
  • absolute necessity
  • basic necessity
  • social necessity
  • urgent necessity
  • dire necessity

Word family

noun necessity
verb necessitate
adjective necessary
adverb necessarily

Usage note

While 'necessity' can refer to something that is required, it often implies a more fundamental or unavoidable need than 'requirement'. It is also used to describe the state of being necessary.

Example sentences

  1. Water is a necessity for life.
  2. A good education is a necessity for success.
  3. Food and shelter are basic necessities of life.
  4. Sleep is a necessity for good health.
  5. A car is a necessity for some people.

Quotes

  • Necessity is the mother of invention.
  • The only true necessity in life is water, everything else is a luxury.
  • Necessity is not an established fact, but an interpretation.

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