requisite
C1Formal, Academic, Business, Legal
Definition
Meaning
Something that is necessary or required for a particular purpose, condition, or activity.
Describes something indispensable or mandatory, often formalizing a precondition. It implies a standard or specification that must be met.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often used as a noun but also functions as an adjective (e.g., 'requisite skills'). Carries a connotation of official or logical necessity rather than casual desire.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical in both varieties. The word is slightly more common in formal British legal/administrative contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, connotes formality, official procedure, or systematic requirement.
Frequency
Low frequency in casual speech; high in academic, business, and technical registers in both UK and US English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[noun] is a requisite for [noun/gerund]possess the requisite [noun]meet the requisite [criteria/standard]lack the requisite [noun]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used for mandatory qualifications, compliance documents, or contractual conditions (e.g., 'the requisite security clearance').
Academic
Describes necessary background knowledge, methodological steps, or formal criteria for a study (e.g., 'the requisite theoretical framework').
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation; might appear in formal contexts like applying for a license (e.g., 'submit the requisite forms').
Technical
Refers to system requirements, specifications, or mandatory components in engineering, law, or software.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- Candidates must have the requisite experience for the senior role.
- The committee granted the requisite planning permission.
American English
- She lacked the requisite credits to graduate on time.
- The contractor failed to obtain the requisite permits.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Patience is a requisite for teaching young children.
- You need the requisite tickets to enter the stadium.
- The course has several requisites that must be completed beforehand.
- He possessed the requisite calmness under pressure for the diplomatic role.
- Fulfilling the statutory requisites for incorporation can be a lengthy process.
- The theory posits that social stability is a requisite for economic innovation.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'REQUISite' as containing 'REQUIS' from 'REQUISition' or 'REQUIRE' – something you REQUEST because it's required.
Conceptual Metaphor
A KEY for a LOCK; a TICKET for ENTRY; a FOUNDATION for a BUILDING.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'реквизит' (stage props). 'Requisite' is 'необходимое условие' or 'требование'. The adjective form 'requisite' translates as 'необходимый', 'требуемый'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'requisite' as a verb (incorrect: 'They requisite approval'; correct: 'They require approval'). Confusing it with 'required' in tone ('requisite' is more formal).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'requisite' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily a noun meaning 'a necessary thing'. It is also commonly used as an adjective meaning 'necessary' or 'required' (e.g., 'requisite skills').
They are often synonyms. 'Requisite' tends to be more formal and is often used for specific, concrete items or conditions. 'Requirement' is more general and frequent in all registers.
No. The verb form is 'require'. 'Requisite' is only a noun or adjective.
Very close. A 'prerequisite' is a specific type of requisite that must be fulfilled *before* something else can happen (e.g., 'Biology 101 is a prerequisite for Anatomy'). A 'requisite' can be simultaneous or ongoing.
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