Synonyms of require

require

verb

ri-ˈkwī(-ə)r 

as in to need

to have as a requirement

the toy requires four batteries, which are not included

Synonyms & Similar Words

• need
• want
• take
• involve
• necessitate
• demand
• warrant
• call for
• claim
• challenge
• entail
• ask
• bear
• beg
• lack
• insist
• cry (for)
• hurt (for)
• stipulate
• enjoin
• exact
• quest
• clamor (for)
• command
• press

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• have
• hold
• possess
• own

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb require contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of require are claim, demand, and exact. While all these words mean "to ask or call for something as due or as necessary," require suggests the imperativeness that arises from inner necessity, compulsion of law or regulation, or the exigencies of the situation.

the patient requires constant attention

When is it sensible to use claim instead of require?

The synonyms claim and require are sometimes interchangeable, but claim implies a demand for the delivery or concession of something due as one's own or one's right.

claimed the right to manage his own affairs

When is demand a more appropriate choice than require?

While the synonyms demand and require are close in meaning, demand implies peremptoriness and insistence and often the right to make requests that are to be regarded as commands.

demanded payment of the debt

Where would exact be a reasonable alternative to require?

In some situations, the words exact and require are roughly equivalent. However, exact implies not only demanding but getting what one demands.

exacts absolute loyalty

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of require

Guests with bags larger than 4 inches by 6 inches are required to be screened through X-ray machines. —Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 7 Aug. 2025

No registration will be required for the open house where attendees will be able for the first time to see the building interior, including what is a far more spacious layout, modern design and state-of-the-art amenities. —Lori Weisberg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Aug. 2025

Segura said the plan, as outlined by the TEA, requires the affected schools to have a principal with turnaround experience and teachers who meet certain performance requirements. —Keri Heath, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025

Economic growth may require zoning updates Before 2022, most data centers in Loudoun County in Virginia were built in areas zoned for industrial use and drew minimal community pushback. —Matthew Glowicki, The Courier-Journal, 30 July 2025