Another Word for Required – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word required is a common adjective, meaning needed for a particular purpose or mandatory by rule or law. To make your English more varied and professional, learning another word for required will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify whether you mean necessary, mandatory, or essential.
What is Another Word for Required?
A great synonym for required is necessary. Required means officially compulsory, or needed for a particular purpose. Necessary means needed to be done, achieved, or present; essential. Both words emphasize the idea of being indispensable or obligatory. Learning words like necessary helps you stress the fundamental need or condition that must be met.
Meaning of “Required”
Required means officially compulsory, or deemed essential; needed for a particular purpose or job.
We use it for rules (a required course), conditions (the required skill set), or need (a required ingredient).
Synonyms for “Required”
Here are some common ways to say required:
- Necessary: Needed to be done, achieved, or present; essential. (A strong, general alternative emphasizing need.)
- Mandatory: Obligatory; compulsory. (Used when emphasizing a rule or command that must be followed.)
- Essential: Absolutely necessary or important. (Used when emphasizing fundamental importance or core need.)
- Compulsory: Required by law or a rule; obligatory. (A strong alternative for formal obligation.)
- Obligatory: Required by a legal, moral, or other rule; compulsory. (Used when emphasizing duty or obligation.)
Example Sentences
- Passing this course is necessary to graduate from the program.
- All employees must attend the mandatory safety training this week.
- Water and nutrients are essential for plant growth and survival.
- Wearing a helmet in the factory area is compulsory for all visitors.
- Paying your taxes is an obligatory duty of citizenship.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “Is this certification required for the new position?”
Mia: “Yes, it is absolutely essential for the work. In fact, all the training courses are mandatory.”
Sam: “Okay, I understand the necessary steps.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t use Compulsory when referring to a general need (e.g., compulsory ingredient). Use Essential or Necessary for need.
✅ Do use Mandatory or Compulsory for rules and regulations, and Essential for fundamental needs.
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “You must present a photo ID, as it is __________ for entry to the secure facility.” (Answer: Mandatory – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to a rule or command that makes the action obligatory or compulsory.)
Practice Tip
Use mandatory or essential instead of “required” in your next set of instructions to clarify the necessity.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for required and practicing synonyms like necessary and mandatory will help you describe obligations and needs clearly.
