What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
needful
Example
It is needful to have a valid passport when traveling abroad. [needful: adjective]
Example
She did the needful by submitting the required documents on time. [needful: noun]
necessary
Example
It is necessary to wear a helmet while riding a bike. [necessary: adjective]
Example
He made the necessary arrangements for the meeting. [necessary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Necessary is more commonly used than needful in everyday language. Necessary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while needful is less common and may sound outdated or archaic in some situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between needful and necessary?
Necessary is considered more formal than needful. While necessary can be used in both formal and informal contexts, needful is typically associated with a more old-fashioned or literary style of writing.
