Imperative
audio of Imperative
Imperative [im-per-uh-tiv]

NOUN, ADJECTIVE

Noun

  • Something unavoidable or urgent.
  • An obligatory duty.
  • A command or a rule.
  • An essential or urgent thing.
  • Grammar - A certain type of sentence that contains no subject and expresses a command to do something, e.g., Please be cautious.

Adjective

  • Absolutely Unavoidable avoided.
  • Necessary.
  • If something is said to be imperative then it is extremely important and needs to be done.
Example

"It is imperative to know your rights while in police custody."

"It is an imperative that we come forward to help our allies."

Synonyms

Noun: Behest, Charge, Command, Decree, Edict, Injunction

Adjective: Compulsory, Obligatory, Critical, Crucial, Essential, Bidding, Dominant, Incumbent, Required

Antonyms

Noun: Appeal, Entreaty, Petition, Plea, Recommendation, Grace, Ease

Adjective: Inessential, Insignificant, Nonessential, Optional, Elective