Necessity

Definition

Necessity refers to the state or fact of being required or indispensable.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nəˈsɛsəti/
• Respelling: nuh-SES-i-tee (with "nuh" as in "nut," "SES" as in "session," and "i-tee" as in "city")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nəˈsɛsɪti/
• Respelling: nuh-SES-i-tee (similar to American English, with "nuh" as in "nut," "SES" as in "session," and "i-tee" as in "city")

In both dialects, "necessity" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SES." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "nuh-SES-i-tee."

Etymology

The term "necessity" is derived from the Old French "necessité," which comes from the Latin "necessitas," meaning "compulsion or need." "Necessitas" is formed from "necesse," indicating "unavoidable."

Derivatives

• Necessary
• Necessarily
• Necessitate
• Necessitous
• Necessarian (related to theological or philosophical doctrine)

Synonyms

• Requirement
• Essential
• Need

Antonyms

• Luxury
• Nonessential
• Optionality

Usage

"Necessity" often refers to something essential or indispensable for a particular task, purpose, or situation.

• Clean water is a basic necessity for human survival.
• Invention is often born out of necessity.
• The necessity of regular health check-ups cannot be overstated.

Related Terms

• Obligation
• Imperative
• Mandate

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Fact of Being Required or Indispensable: An indispensable item or condition.‍
• Example: Fresh air is a necessity for good health.

• Unavoidable Nature: The quality or state of being unavoidable.‍
• Example: It is a necessity that we all age with time.

• Compelling Need: A situation calling for immediate action or attention.‍
• Example: They donated out of a necessity to help the victims of the natural disaster.