COMPULSORY Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

compulsory

adjective

kəm-ˈpəls-rē

Definition of compulsory

as in mandatory

forcing one's compliance or participation by or as if by law compulsory retirement at age 70

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of compulsory Voting is optional in New Zealand but enrollment for those eligible and living in the country is compulsory, with failure to do so punishable by a fine of 100 New Zealand dollars ($59). — ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026 But compulsory citizen participation in self-governance has a long and distinguished history. — Susan Ostermann, Mercury News, 1 Aug. 2026 During those years, a generation of young men left the country to avoid compulsory military service in Israel's proxy Lebanese militia, known as the South Lebanon Army. — Jane Arraf, NPR, 26 July 2026 The film is a reminder that conformity is never compulsory, and that putting yourself out there is the only way to find out who’s ready to catch you. — Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for compulsory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for compulsory

Adjective

The mandatory software only made a job possible—not better, not less frustrating, and not any more rewarding.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2026
As a starting point, the team could argue that no court should hear Kanter’s case because tickets to Sky games reportedly contain a mandatory arbitration clause.

— Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of mandatory

Adjective

The report describes cramped windowless housing units offering barely half the required living space, limited showers and recreation, and poor access to clean drinking water, hygiene supplies and legal materials.

— Gisela Salomon, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2026
The city said the event cannot move forward on the new date unless organizers complete the required permitting process.

— Brady Halbleib, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026

Definition of required

Adjective

David Morales, a state lawmaker and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, defeated incumbent Mayor Brett Smiley.

— Teo Armus, Washington Post, 10 Sep. 2026
But after the primary results, both Dan Sullivans are set to appear on the ballot, potentially complicating the incumbent senator's chances.

— Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of incumbent

Adjective

Researchers say additional multiphysics simulations and vehicle-level testing remain necessary.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 Sep. 2026
Republicans needed Democratic support to win the 60 votes necessary to move forward on the bill in the 53-47 Senate.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of necessary

Browse Nearby Words

compulsive

compulsory

compunction

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“Compulsory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compulsory. Accessed 17 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of compulsory

adjective

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