mandatory
MAN-duh-tor-ee
/ˈmændətɔːri/
Required by law or rules; compulsory.
Implies that there is no option or choice; it must be done.
The story behind the word. The word 'mandatory' comes from the Latin 'mandatorius', which is related to 'mandare', meaning 'to commit, entrust, order'. This root gives us the sense of something being commanded or officially ordered. So, if something is mandatory, it's essentially 'under command' and must be followed.
Word relationships
- compulsory: Very similar, often interchangeable, especially in academic contexts.
- obligatory: Implies a moral or legal duty.
- required: More general, can be a requirement without being a strict rule.
- optional: Available as a choice; not required.
- voluntary: Done by choice, not by compulsion.
Word family
- mandate (noun): An official order or commission to do something.
Collocations
- mandatory attendance
- mandatory training
- mandatory requirement
- mandatory rule
Example sentences
- "Attendance at the orientation session is mandatory for all new students." A university announcement.
- "Wearing safety helmets on the construction site is mandatory." A company policy.
Memory hook
MANDATORY means you MUST do it, like a COMMAND. Must command
When not to use
Do not use 'mandatory' for something that is merely suggested or optional; use 'optional' or 'recommended' instead.
Fun facts
- The word 'mandate' (as a noun, meaning an official order) shares the same Latin root.
Related words
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