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 The statute leaves no role for agencies to 'assess citizenship,' and the president lacks any lawful authority to contravene the NVRA by requiring agencies to do so. —Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2025 Acrylic also requires special removal, so opt for this Willowash electric nail soaking bowl for best results. —Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2025 This powerful white label ERP Agency Plan offers everything your digital business requires—all in one comprehensive, user-friendly platform. —Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PC Magazine, 24 Apr. 2025 That case, in federal court in New Jersey, seeks an order that would require Khalil's release and the rescinding of the Rubio determination. —Camilo Montoya-Galvez, CBS News, 11 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
  • For those who do not want to lock up that firearm, Michael suggests other interventions that can help prevent suicide.
    — Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025
  • The firepit is there for anyone who just wants to cheer from the sidelines.
    — Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 24 Apr. 2025
Definition of want
Verb
  • Many guests spend their entire vacation inside the Disney bubble – playing in the parks, staying at Disney hotels, dining at Disney restaurants, taking resort transportation and more.
    — Eve Chen, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Every late November and early December, the Anegada Lobster Festival takes the island's year-round lobster love and turns it into an obsession, with local restaurants featuring special dishes and plenty of events making the spiny Anegada lobster the star of the show.
    — Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 20 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 29 Apr. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of require for Spanish Speakers

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