Require Meaning

UK /rɪˈkwaɪə/
US /rɪˈkwaɪɚ/
Word Definition
require meaning

Require Definition & Usage

verb

To need or demand something as necessary.

Examples

  • "The job requires a lot of experience in marketing."
  • "This project will require additional resources to be completed on time."
  • "Does the recipe require any special ingredients?"
  • "The situation requires careful consideration before making a decision."
  • "To pass the exam, you will require at least 70% in all subjects."
verb

To command or demand something as an instruction or obligation.

Examples

  • "The law requires all drivers to wear seatbelts."
  • "This contract requires you to complete the work by the end of the month."
  • "The company requires its employees to report their hours every week."
  • "The new rules require businesses to reduce their carbon emissions."
  • "The emergency response plan requires all staff to be on call at all times."
verb

To call for something as a prerequisite or condition for something else.

Examples

  • "The new software requires an internet connection to function properly."
  • "The event requires advance registration to ensure there are enough seats."
  • "The job position requires a Bachelor's degree or higher."
  • "This level of encryption requires a special security key."
  • "His proposal requires the approval of the board before moving forward."

Cultural Context

The word 'require' has evolved from Latin 'requirere,' which means 'to seek, demand, or ask for.' It has been used in English since the Middle Ages and is common in both everyday conversation and formal contexts such as legal language, business, and academia.

The Unlikely Requirement

Story

The Unlikely Requirement

Sarah had always been passionate about technology, but she had never imagined herself working in the corporate world. One day, while reviewing a job posting for a startup, she came across an interesting opening for a software engineer. However, there was one requirement that made her pause. The job 'required' candidates to have experience with a programming language she'd never even heard of. 'How could I possibly apply?' Sarah thought, feeling a bit disheartened. But Sarah was determined. The job required a unique set of skills that she didn't yet possess, but she was sure she could learn quickly. So, she set out to acquire the knowledge. For weeks, she diligently studied, and before long, she had mastered the programming language. Armed with new knowledge, she applied for the job. To her surprise, she was invited for an interview. During the interview, the hiring manager asked, 'What made you decide to apply for this role, even though the position requires a specific skill set?' Sarah explained how she had learned the required language in just a few weeks, emphasizing that she was excited about the challenges and opportunities the job would offer. The manager was impressed by Sarah's dedication and willingness to learn. 'The role requires someone with a proactive attitude,' he said. 'It’s not just about having the skills right now, but about being able to meet the challenges that come with the job.' In the end, Sarah was hired, and she excelled in her new position. She realized that sometimes, the things we think we require in life are not as fixed as we initially assume. Sometimes, requirements are just opportunities waiting to be challenged and exceeded. This story highlights how the word 'require' can have different meanings. In one sense, it refers to something necessary (e.g., the skill required for the job), but it also shows that a requirement can sometimes be an opportunity to grow, change, and meet new challenges.

The Unlikely Requirement