of the essence

ADJECTIVE

prerequisite

Synonyms

STRONG

essential expedient imperative mandatory requisite

WEAK

called-for important indispensable necessitous needful obligatory required vital

Antonyms

STRONG

inessential optional secondary unnecessary voluntary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Time is of the essence, say top EU officials.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

Jane stressed "time is of the essence", as antiviral treatment within 48 hours can reduce the risk of severe symptoms.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Time is of the essence when it comes to making these refund-enhancing tax-planning moves, and filing your 2025 tax return, according to Greene-Lewis.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 4, 2025

With speed of the essence, they don’t stop for anything; even bathroom breaks are handled as the boat rockets forward.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

I do believe mortals strived more heartily toward their goals, because they knew that time was of the essence.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

of the essence

Example Sentences

Related Words