# prerequisite

/pɹiˈɹɛkwəzət/ (US) · /pɹˌiːɹˈɛkwɪsˌɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prerequisite
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.