compulsory item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compulsory item" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is required or mandatory in a specific context, such as a list of items needed for a course or event. Example: "The textbook is a compulsory item for this course, and all students must purchase it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The pork belly, for example, was "a compulsory item," Ms. Mindell insisted, and the burgers, served with caramelized onions and Tarentaise cheese, were also mentioned as a necessity.

The New York Times

It is thought possible he might appeal as a coin is not listed in the rules of the game as a compulsory item of equipment.

BBC

The orange sash has been largely replaced by the cheaper 'collarette' and is the only compulsory item of uniform, usually worn over a suit and tie.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

For boys, prices quoted for 10 out of the 18 compulsory items add up to £132.50.

The Guardian

For boys, there are 18 compulsory items, including a blazer and a summer waistcoat.

The Guardian

A list of prices for 12 of the compulsory items for girls from the uniform supplier on the school's website, Recognition Express, comes to £181.

The Guardian

The 74 key cities have been selected as pilot cities to carry out real-time air quality monitoring according to the new ambient air quality standards, in which PM2.5 is for the first time included as one of the six compulsory items.

Cities

The guidelines will also say schools should not enter into 'cash-back' agreements with shops and compulsory items of uniform should be available relatively cheaply.

BBC

Because they are still considered compulsory dowry items for brides, modern tush-kiiz are usually bright patches of silk sewn together.

The New York Times - Arts

On its website it features a list of 21 compulsory uniform items for girls, including a kilt, summer blazer, felt winter hat, boater and cravat.

The Guardian

However, the new document does beef up the advice in two areas: saying schools should generally avoid forcing parents to buy uniform from a single named supplier and that "schools should keep compulsory branded items to a minimum".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "compulsory item" in formal writing, consider if a more formal alternative like "mandatory requirement" or "required element" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all listed items are "compulsory items" without explicitly stating which ones are mandatory. Clearly differentiate between optional and required items to prevent confusion and ensure compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compulsory item" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "compulsory" modifies the noun "item". It specifies that the item is not optional but rather required. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "compulsory item" is a grammatically sound noun phrase indicating a required element. While it is not exceedingly common, Ludwig identifies it as correct and usable, with applications in diverse contexts, notably news media and science. For those seeking alternatives, phrases like "mandatory requirement" or "required element" offer similar meanings, possibly with a more formal tone. When employing "compulsory item", clarity is key: explicitly state which items are compulsory to avoid ambiguity. While perfectly acceptable, in more formal settings, consider the elevated tone offered by alternative phrasings. With this information in hand, you can wield the phrase "compulsory item" confidently and effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mandatory requirement

This alternative emphasizes the obligatory aspect, similar to "compulsory", but uses a more formal term.

Required element

This option focuses on the necessity of the item, highlighting its essential nature.

Obligatory inclusion

This phrase stresses the need to include the item, making it unavoidable.

Essential provision

This emphasizes that the item is crucial and must be provided.

Necessary component

This alternative highlights the item's role as a key part of a larger whole.

Indispensable aspect

This focuses on the item's importance and the fact that it cannot be done without.

Unavoidable necessity

This option underscores the inevitability and need for the item.

Crucial inclusion

Focuses on the critical nature of including the item.

Must-have item

This alternative uses more informal language and is more emphatic.

Non-negotiable requirement

This stresses the firmness and lack of flexibility regarding the item's necessity.

FAQs

How can I use "compulsory item" in a sentence?

You can use "compulsory item" to refer to something that is required or mandatory in a specific context. For example, "The textbook is a "compulsory item" for this course, and all students must purchase it."

What can I say instead of "compulsory item"?

You can use alternatives like "mandatory requirement", "required element", or "essential provision" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "compulsory item" and "optional item"?

"Compulsory item" refers to something that is required, while "optional item" refers to something that is not required and is left to one's discretion.

Is it better to use "compulsory item" or "mandatory item"?

Both "compulsory item" and "mandatory item" are correct, but "mandatory item" might be considered slightly more formal. The best choice depends on the context and the desired tone.