mandatory Definition
- 1required by law or rules; compulsory
- 2something that is mandatory is something that must be done, often because of a rule or law
Using mandatory: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mandatory" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Wearing a mask is mandatory in some public places.
Example
The course has a mandatory attendance policy.
Example
All employees are required to attend the mandatory training session.
Example
The company implemented mandatory overtime during the busy season.
mandatory Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for mandatory
Antonyms for mandatory
Phrases with mandatory
the shortest prison term that can be imposed for a particular crime, as stipulated by law
Example
The judge had to impose the mandatory minimum sentence for the defendant's crime.
a policy requiring employees to retire at a certain age, typically 65
Example
The company has a mandatory retirement policy for all employees over the age of 65.
government spending that is required by law, such as entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare
Example
Mandatory spending makes up a large portion of the federal budget.
Origins of mandatory
from Latin 'mandatum', meaning 'a command'
Summary: mandatory in Brief
The term 'mandatory' [ˈmændətɔːri] refers to something that is required by law or rules, often with a sense of compulsion. It can refer to policies like mandatory retirement, or requirements like mandatory attendance. 'Mandatory' is often used in legal contexts, such as mandatory minimum sentences.