necessity

/nɪˈsɛsəti/

necessity

English Noun Top 10,219
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Definition

The quality or state of being necessary, unavoidable, or absolutely requisite.

Etymology

From Middle English necessite, from Old French necessite, from Latin necessitās (“unavoidableness, compulsion, exigency, necessity”), from necesse (“unavoidable, inevitable”); see necessary. Doublet of Necessitas.

Example Sentences

  • "I bought a new table out of necessity. My old one was ruined."
  • "Educating the public about some of the myths that underlie their fears that non-traditional families will of necessity be detrimental to the well-being of foster children."
  • "Seeing the British establishment struggle with the financial sector is like watching an alcoholic […]. Until 2008 there was denial over what finance had become. […] But the scandals kept coming, […]. A broad section of the political class now recognises the need for change but remains unable to see the necessity of a fundamental overhaul."
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