necessary

[nes-uh-ser-ee] / ˈnɛs əˌsɛr i /

ADJECTIVE

essential

Synonyms

STRONGEST

basic crucial decisive essential fundamental imperative indispensable mandatory needed paramount required significant unavoidable urgent vital

STRONG

binding cardinal chief expedient prerequisite pressing prime principal requisite

WEAK

all-important bottom-line compelling compulsory de rigueur elementary exigent incumbent on momentous must-have name of game needful obligatory quintessential specified wanted

Antonyms

STRONGEST

additional extra inessential minor nonessential optional secondary trivial unimportant unnecessary voluntary

STRONG

insignificant

WEAK

contingent needless useless

ADJECTIVE

inevitable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

certain imminent unavoidable

WEAK

assured fated ineluctable ineludible inerrant inescapable inevasible inexorable infallible returnless undeniable unescapable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

doubtful

WEAK

contingent inessential needless optional unimportant unnecessary useless 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.

The director of the Lebanese Italian Hospital told the NNA that it would "remain open to provide the necessary medical care" despite the damage.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

But should it become necessary to defend the honor of the Empire, a chrome button on the steering wheel activates Infinity Mode.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Semiconductors will also be necessary for other related technology, such as user terminals.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Although it appeared to acknowledge the server had been taken down, it said that was necessary for the backup to be restored.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Irina was assigned to become an armorer, loading bombs and guns and doing necessary maintenance work.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein

necessary

Example Sentences

Related Words