Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for necessary.
Definitions

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.

While no gubernatorial candidate reached the necessary level of support to earn the endorsement at the February gathering, Swalwell had the largest share with 24%.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

It is the latest version of an ongoing conflict about how much transparency is necessary and desirable in American government.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

Earlier this month, he told The Wall Street Journal that continuity was necessary to minimize execution risk for the complex merger.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Peter Roderick, director of public health for City of York Council, says parents should not feel pressured about reaching certain milestones, but instead reach out for support where necessary.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Yoshida told his crew to prepare vehicles in case an evacuation was necessary, and to find temporary shelter on the grounds of Fukushima Daiichi.

From "Meltdown" by Deirdre Langeland

Vocabulary lists containing necessary

Commonly Misspelled Words, List 1

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Very Necessary: Synonyms for "Important"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Workshop 3, Part 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!