prerequisite

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'prerequisite' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a condition or requirement that is necessary before something else can happen or be done. For example, "A strong knowledge of mathematics is a prerequisite for this course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is because security has become a prerequisite of planning permission as a result of SBD, which is a design policy that has the blessing of the police.

The Guardian

The virtue is humility, a quality not much associated with Westminster politics and a prerequisite for regaining trust.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a prerequisite of my tailoring that there is a little side pocket that can contain a vial of gin.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While high fences, walls or other barriers are a prerequisite for any school, the crime risk assessment will suggest whether additional security measures are necessary.

The Guardian

With customers increasingly demanding support with self-service technology and expecting a more connected experience, digital skills will soon be a prerequisite for any customer assistant position, and the role as we know it will likely be no more.

The Guardian

But, he says, all this is changing: in ten years or so, Kurdistan will be not only a happy province, but also a prosperous one.Security, a crucial prerequisite, has already been provided, albeit painfully.

The Economist

Since, based on the lone example available, it looks likely that liquid water is a prerequisite for life, knowing a planet's atmospheric pressures would help focus the search for a second.Dr Meadows proposes to make the measurement by looking at a planet's atmospheric oxygen.

The Economist

You cannot look up on Google something you do not know exists; and the ability to hold facts in your head is a prerequisite for many careers the law, say, or engineering.

The Economist

And Sri Lankans of all persuasions are now willing to accept international mediation, a prerequisite for a negotiated solution.

The Economist

The Americans offered just enough on cotton and on duty-free access to avoid being painted as enemies of the poor.For all that, the focus on the poorest members is a prerequisite for moving forward in other areas.

The Economist

Stellar competence is not always a prerequisite for ministerial office in Britain.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing academic or professional requirements, use "prerequisite" to clearly denote courses, skills, or qualifications that must be completed before proceeding to a more advanced stage.

Common error

Avoid using "prerequisite" when describing elements that are merely preferred or helpful but not strictly required. A "prerequisite" is a non-negotiable condition that must be met.

Linguistic Context

The word "prerequisite" functions primarily as a noun referring to something required as a prior condition. Ludwig AI confirms that "prerequisite" is correct and usable in written English. It can also function as an adjective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "prerequisite" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe something that is required before something else can occur. Ludwig AI confirms the term's proper usage, and its frequent appearance in various sources, including The Guardian and The Economist, highlights its relevance across news, academic and business contexts. To ensure proper usage, remember that a "prerequisite" is non-negotiable. Consider using alternatives like "essential requirement" or "mandatory condition" depending on the desired nuance. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and level of formality, you can confidently incorporate the word "prerequisite" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential requirement

Replaces "prerequisite" with two words emphasizing the necessity of the requirement.

mandatory condition

Focuses on the obligatory nature of the condition, similar to a "prerequisite".

necessary qualification

Highlights that the "prerequisite" acts as a formal qualification.

indispensable element

Emphasizes that the "prerequisite" is crucial and cannot be done without.

fundamental necessity

Stresses the basic and vital nature of the "prerequisite".

required antecedent

Uses a more formal term, "antecedent", to indicate what comes before and is needed.

must-have

A more informal and concise alternative, suitable for less formal contexts.

basic foundation

Suggests that the "prerequisite" is the base upon which something else is built.

key preliminary

Highlights the importance and preparatory nature of the "prerequisite".

initial step

Focuses on the "prerequisite" as the very first action that must be taken.

FAQs

How can I use "prerequisite" in a sentence?

You can use "prerequisite" to indicate something that is required before something else can happen. For example, "Passing the entrance exam is a "requirement" for admission."

What are some alternatives to "prerequisite"?

Some alternatives include "requirement", "condition", "essential", or "qualification". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "prerequisite" a noun or an adjective?

"Prerequisite" can function as both a noun (something required) and an adjective (required). For example, "Calculus is a prerequisite for this course" (noun) and "The requisite skills are essential" (adjective).

What's the difference between "prerequisite" and "recommendation"?

A "prerequisite" is mandatory; it must be fulfilled. A "recommendation", on the other hand, is suggested but not compulsory. For instance, while knowledge of basic algebra might be a prerequisite for a physics course, taking a specific introductory physics course might simply be recommended.