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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.

It’s certainly a nice gesture, but not 100% necessary.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

In his note to staff, Isner said that the company’s business remained strong and that people would still be necessary even in an AI world.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

That means making sure that vacant directorship positions are filled by qualified experts, the review panels necessary to award grants aren’t disbanded, and staffing is sufficient to meet the scientific and operational demand.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

As stand-alone episodes go, “Gary” is especially independent; no prior knowledge of the FX series is necessary.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

Her brothers did not feel lessons would be necessary but thanked her sincerely for the offer.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

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"

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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!