require

verb

ri-ˈkwī(-ə)r How to pronounce require (audio)
Definition of requirenext
as in to need
to have as a requirement the toy requires four batteries, which are not included

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb require contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of require are claim, demand, and exact. While all these words mean "to ask or call for something as due or as necessary," require suggests the imperativeness that arises from inner necessity, compulsion of law or regulation, or the exigencies of the situation.

the patient requires constant attention

When is it sensible to use claim instead of require?

The synonyms claim and require are sometimes interchangeable, but claim implies a demand for the delivery or concession of something due as one's own or one's right.

claimed the right to manage his own affairs

When is demand a more appropriate choice than require?

While the synonyms demand and require are close in meaning, demand implies peremptoriness and insistence and often the right to make requests that are to be regarded as commands.

demanded payment of the debt

Where would exact be a reasonable alternative to require?

In some situations, the words exact and require are roughly equivalent. However, exact implies not only demanding but getting what one demands.

exacts absolute loyalty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of require School officials are required to report whether an active student with a visa has enrolled within a month of classes starting. —Clara-Sophia Daly, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2025 Each burial required breaking the stone floor, placing the tiny remains underneath, and then filling in the hole with crushed limestone. —ArsTechnica, 10 Apr. 2025 The source, however, noted that the group is not pushing for changes to the resolution, which would require the measure to go back to the Senate for approval. —Mychael Schnell, The Hill, 9 Apr. 2025 According to the International Cable Protection Committee, whose members represent over 98% of global submarine telecommunications cable infrastructure, cables at 4,000-meter depths are not typically armored or fortified in a way that would require such advanced cable-cutting technology. —Jill Goldenziel, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for require
Recent Examples of Synonyms for require
  1. need
  2. want
  3. take
Verb
  • There needs to be a continuation of the Behavioral Threat Assessment process to include colleges and Universities.
    — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Boone was asked if Chisholm needs to find a better way to control his emotions.
    — Chris Kirschner, New York Times, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of need
Verb
  • Now, a New Jersey mayor wants to shut the initiative down.
    — Rania Aniftos, Billboard, 10 Apr. 2025
  • While weddings are generally less formal these days, that arguably makes the dress code even more challenging: no one wants to be underdressed, or overdressed, for a friend’s big day.
    — Emily Chan, Vogue, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of want
Verb
  • Some people with type 2 diabetes take oral medications to keep their blood sugar in control.
    — Julia Ries, Health, 9 Apr. 2025
  • With the win, Orlando takes a 2-1 lead in the four-game series with Atlanta, which hosts the Magic in the regular-season finale on Sunday at State Farm Arena.
    — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of take

Browse Nearby Words

requiescats
require
required
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Cite this Entry

“Require.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/require. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of require for Spanish Speakers

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