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

Controllers not being paid during shutdown Controllers are considered essential government employees and required to work during the shutdown, but are not currently being paid. —Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025

Later that year, the office said the Department of Transportation hasn’t established the goals required to properly assess the performance of the financial aid programs that are supposed to encourage shipbuilding. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 8 Oct. 2025

However, on days where the onus is on Frank’s team to take the game to the opposition, there is a feeling those two aren’t both required. —Mark Carey, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025

This easy fall welcome sign requires just a small chalkboard, a little paint, and a pretty checkered ribbon. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025