Thesaurus

imperative

Q: How is the word 'imperative' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of imperative are domineering , imperious , masterful , and peremptory . While all these words mean "tending to impose one's will on others," imperative implies peremptoriness arising more from the urgency of the situation than from an inherent will to dominate. // an imperative appeal for assistance

Q: When would 'domineering' be a good substitute for 'imperative'?

The meanings of domineering and imperative largely overlap; however, domineering suggests an overbearing or arbitrary manner and an obstinate determination to enforce one's will. // children controlled by domineering parents

Q: When is 'imperious' a more appropriate choice than 'imperative'?

While the synonyms imperious and imperative are close in meaning, imperious implies a commanding nature or manner and often suggests arrogant assurance. // an imperious executive used to getting his own way

Q: When might 'masterful' be a better fit than 'imperative'?

Although the words masterful and imperative have much in common, masterful implies a strong personality and ability to act authoritatively. // her masterful personality soon dominated the movement

Q: When is it sensible to use 'peremptory' instead of 'imperative'?

While in some cases nearly identical to imperative , peremptory implies an abrupt dictatorial manner coupled with an unwillingness to brook disobedience or dissent. // given a peremptory dismissal

adjective

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Synonyms & Antonyms of imperative

(Entry 1 of 2)

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

reporting signs of physical abuse is now an imperative duty for hospital and school personnel

Synonyms for imperative

Words Related to imperative

coercive

Near Antonyms for imperative

Antonyms for imperative

2 impossible to do without

proper equipment is imperative for the success of this chemical experiment

Synonyms for imperative

Words Related to imperative

prerequisite

Phrases Synonymous with imperative

of the essence

Near Antonyms for imperative

Antonyms for imperative

3 needing immediate attention

an imperative need for medical supplies in the earthquake-ravaged country

Synonyms for imperative

Words Related to imperative

Near Antonyms for imperative

Antonyms for imperative

imperative

noun

Synonyms & Antonyms of imperative (Entry 2 of 2)

1 a statement of what to do that must be obeyed by those concerned

a secretary of defense who was fond of issuing harshly worded imperatives

Synonyms for imperative

Words Related to imperative

mandate

Near Antonyms for imperative

2 something one must do because of prior agreement

although he had little taste for the social imperatives that come with being governor, he put on a brave face

Synonyms for imperative

Words Related to imperative

onus

Near Antonyms for imperative

loophole

Frequently Asked Questions About imperative

How is the word imperative distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of imperative are domineering, imperious, masterful, and peremptory. While all these words mean "tending to impose one's will on others," imperative implies peremptoriness arising more from the urgency of the situation than from an inherent will to dominate.

an imperative appeal for assistance

When would domineering be a good substitute for imperative?

The meanings of domineering and imperative largely overlap; however, domineering suggests an overbearing or arbitrary manner and an obstinate determination to enforce one's will.

children controlled by domineering parents

When is imperious a more appropriate choice than imperative?

While the synonyms imperious and imperative are close in meaning, imperious implies a commanding nature or manner and often suggests arrogant assurance.

an imperious executive used to getting his own way

When might masterful be a better fit than imperative?

Although the words masterful and imperative have much in common, masterful implies a strong personality and ability to act authoritatively.

her masterful personality soon dominated the movement

When is it sensible to use peremptory instead of imperative?

While in some cases nearly identical to imperative, peremptory implies an abrupt dictatorial manner coupled with an unwillingness to brook disobedience or dissent.

given a peremptory dismissal