Necessary

nes-uh-ser-ee

/ˈnɛs.əˌsɛr.i/

Adjective

Meaning

  • Necessary means something that is essential, required, or needed for a particular purpose, situation, or result.
  • If something is necessary, you cannot avoid or skip it.

Examples

  • It is necessary to study regularly to score well in exams.
  • Good nutrition is necessary for a healthy lifestyle.
  • A ticket is necessary to enter the auditorium.
  • Wearing a helmet is necessary while riding a bike.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Essential Required Mandatory Indispensable Needed Unnecessary Optional Extra Nonessential

Word Forms

  • Necessarily (adverb) – in a necessary way; inevitably
  • Necessity (noun) – something that is essential or required

Origin / Etymology

The word necessary comes from the Latin word necessarius, meaning “unavoidable” or “indispensable.” It is derived from necesse, which means “inevitable” or “necessary.”

Grammar Information

  • Often used before nouns: necessary documents, necessary steps
  • Common structure: necessary to + verb (e.g., It is necessary to complete the form.)
  • Works in both formal and informal English.

Translations

  • Hindi: आवश्यक / ज़रूरी
  • Spanish: necesario
  • French: nécessaire
  • German: notwendig
  • Tamil: தேவையான
  • Arabic: ضروري

Idioms & Phrases

  • If necessary – if it is needed
  • Do the necessary – do what needs to be done
  • Make the necessary arrangements – prepare what is required