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

The plan does not include crosswalks, which city spokesperson Jack VanderToll said require more extensive work such as accessible sidewalks and curb ramps. — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Nov. 2026

Google is prohibited from attempting to re-identify the data, and is required to process it in a secure environment and treat it as confidential. — David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 10 Nov. 2026

There doesn’t seem to be any sort of mandate requiring Stearns to cut payroll or at least cut back. — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 10 Nov. 2026

The percentage of children who received the MMR vaccine has fallen below the 95 percent rate that is required to sustain herd immunity. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 10 Nov. 2026