What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
necessity
Example
Water is a necessity for human survival. [necessity: noun]
Example
It is a necessity to wear a helmet while riding a bike. [necessity: noun]
essential
Example
Good communication skills are essential for success in any job. [essential: adjective]
Example
Vitamins and minerals are essential for a healthy diet. [essential: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Essential is more commonly used than necessity in everyday language. Essential is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while necessity is less common and has a more limited scope.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between necessity and essential?
Both necessity and essential can be used in formal and informal contexts, but essential is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
