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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.

Time is of the essence, say top EU officials.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 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

It says the government's announcement is "vital and long-overdue", but time is of the essence.

From BBC • Jul. 31, 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