student asking question

What is "necessities"? Should I always use this word in plural if I want to deliver the same meaning?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Necessities" are basic needs or essential requirements. When talking about plural things, you should use the plural "necessities", however, you can use the singular form, "necessity" when talking about one thing that is important. This doesn't change the meaning. Ex: Water is a necessity for every person. Ex: Your passport is a necessity when traveling internationally. Ex: Many families cannot afford the basic necessities of life.

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