ENGLISH
REFERENCE

essential

n. countable
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ɛˈsɛnʃəɫ// UK //ɪsˈɛnʃəl// es·sen·tial General-service

n. a basic thing that you must have or do. You use this to talk about items like food or water that are necessary for survival.

n. a fundamental element or basic necessity required for a specific purpose or for survival. Often used in the plural to refer to indispensable items.


SIMPLE

We packed only the essentials for our camping trip.

CONTEXTUAL

The charity provides local families with food, clean water, and other daily essentials during the winter months.

COMPLEX

While the luxury features are attractive, the committee must first ensure the budget covers the essentials of structural safety and accessibility.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Late Latin essentiālis, from Latin essentia (“being, essence”).

Usage

Commonly used in the plural form 'essentials' when referring to a group of necessary items.

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