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Definitions

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.

Speed is of the essence because, nearly a month in, disruptions are spreading.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

"If a heel prick test had been done... things would have been addressed. Time is of the essence with this."

From BBC • Jan. 6, 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

This time of year depictions of the Baby Jesus in a manger are everywhere as a commercial cue, an object of worship, as a depiction of the essence of innocence.

From Salon • Dec. 23, 2024

This Atman, which resides in every thing, is part of the essence of the universe, and is immortal.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife