Word
prerequisite
Phoneticspre·req·ui·site, stress on the second syllable
US/pɹiˈɹɛkwəzət/
UK/pɹˌiːɹˈɛkwɪsˌɪt/
Countable noun
Definition
n. something that you must have or do before you can move on to the next step. For example, you might need to pass one class before you can take a more difficult one.
n. a requirement that must be satisfied prior to a subsequent event or action. Often used in academic or professional contexts to describe mandatory preliminary conditions.
Examples
“A basic math course is a prerequisite for this advanced physics class.”
“The university requires a high level of English proficiency as a prerequisite for admission to the graduate program.”
“While technical skills are essential, the hiring committee emphasized that a collaborative mindset is a prerequisite for success within their highly integrated research teams.”
Examples
simple
“A basic math course is a prerequisite for this advanced physics class.”
contextual
“The university requires a high level of English proficiency as a prerequisite for admission to the graduate program.”
complex
“While technical skills are essential, the hiring committee emphasized that a collaborative mindset is a prerequisite for success within their highly integrated research teams.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'to'.
Real-World Examples
“Many universities are removing or lowering prerequisite subjects as entry requirements , which sends a signal that students don't need to engage with "difficult" areas of study.” “The machine-learning method identifies differentially methylated DNA regions without sample labels—a prerequisite for many existing algorithms.” Etymology
From pre- + requisite.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/prerequisite