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 latter can be superbly made, and can add something special to the process, but does require a little more practice to get comfortable with. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026

The plea agreement requires Ruis to stay out of trouble for six months, complete two days of community service, and agree to a permanent separation from the NYPD, from which he was already dismissed on June 26. — Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026

The transaction would also require SEC review, shareholder approval and other company authorizations, while its timing will depend on market conditions. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026

South Korea requires nearly all able-bodied men to complete 18 months of service, a rule that applied to all seven BTS members, who began enlisting in 2022 at the height of the group’s global popularity. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026