Definitions
- Referring to something that is required by law or regulation. - Talking about something that is compulsory or obligatory. - Describing something that is necessary and cannot be avoided.
- Referring to something that is absolutely necessary or indispensable. - Talking about something that is crucial or vital. - Describing something that is fundamental or basic.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to something that is necessary or required.
- 2Both words emphasize the importance of the thing being described.
- 3Both words can be used to describe things that are non-negotiable or cannot be avoided.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Mandatory is often used in the context of rules, regulations, or laws, while essential can be used in a broader range of contexts.
- 2Connotation: Mandatory can have a negative connotation, implying that something is being forced upon someone, while essential has a more positive connotation, emphasizing the importance and value of the thing being described.
- 3Scope: Mandatory implies that something is required by an external authority, while essential can refer to something that is necessary for personal reasons or goals.
- 4Flexibility: Essential can be used to describe something that is necessary but allows for some flexibility or variation, while mandatory implies a strict requirement with no room for deviation.
Remember this!
Mandatory and essential are both words that describe something that is necessary or required. However, mandatory is often used in the context of rules, regulations, or laws, while essential has a broader range of applications. Additionally, mandatory can have a negative connotation, while essential is more positive and emphasizes the importance and value of the thing being described.