Synonyms of mandatory

mandatory

adjective

ˈman-də-ˌtȯr-ē 

as in compulsory

forcing one's compliance or participation by or as if by law

the tests are mandatory for all students wishing to graduate

Synonyms & Similar Words

• compulsory
• required
• incumbent
• necessary
• obligatory
• urgent
• needed
• imperative
• involuntary
• requisite
• forced
• essential
• nonelective
• peremptory
• indispensable
• enforced
• all-important
• demanded
• persistent
• insistent
• pressing
• coercive

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• optional
• voluntary
• elective
• discretionary
• unnecessary
• unwanted
• unimportant
• chosen
• insignificant
• unneeded
• inconsequential
• dispensable
• nonessential

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of mandatory

Because Benton resigned before the report was completed, its release was not mandatory. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Days after the Post’s investigation, Flock Safety announced a number of additional mandatory safeguards for customers, including a new auditing system and shortened data retention periods. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 16 Aug. 2026

Then only black was allowed, and full-face coverings became mandatory. — Dominique Soguel, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Aug. 2026

As water creeps up basement stairs and blocks off driveways well beyond the mandatory evacuation zone, more residents have considered leaving of their own accord. — Jen Guadarrama, IndyStar, 15 Aug. 2026