# require

/ˌɹiˈkwaɪɝ/ (US) · /ɹɪkwˈaɪə/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/require
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to need

verb · CEFR B1

to need something because it is necessary or very important.

For teachers: to need something as an indispensable or essential condition.

- Most plants require regular sunlight and water to grow healthy and strong.
- The complex chemical reaction requires a stable temperature and the presence of a specific catalyst to proceed at an efficient rate.

Usage: Often used with a noun object or a gerund (-ing form).

### 2. to demand by rule

verb · CEFR B1 · Formal

to make something necessary because of a law, rule, or authority.

For teachers: to demand or insist upon something authoritatively, often by virtue of a regulation or law.

- The law requires all drivers to wear a seatbelt while the car is moving.
- The university regulations require that all doctoral candidates submit their final thesis at least one month prior to the oral examination.

Usage: Commonly followed by an object and a 'to' infinitive, or a 'that' clause.

Teaching tip: This sense is more formal than 'need'; it implies that an external authority is making the demand.

## Examples

- Most plants require water and sunlight to grow.
- The new safety regulations require all employees to wear protective gear while operating the machinery.
- While the basic version of the software is free, the advanced features require a monthly subscription that includes technical support and cloud storage.

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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.