Compulsory Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒmpʌlsəri/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A compulsory activity, task, or situation is one that is required or demanded, often by law, rule, or necessity, and cannot be avoided or ignored.

Examples

1. “Voting is a compulsory activity in many countries, ensuring every citizen’s voice is heard.”

2. “Mandatory health insurance is a compulsory requirement for all residents.”

Synonyms

1. Required

2. Necessary

3. Mandatory

Antonyms

1. Voluntary

2. Optional

3. Elective

Etymology

The word ‘compulsory’ originates from the Latin ‘compulsorius’, meaning ‘forced’ or ‘coerced’. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, initially meaning ‘required by law’ or ‘under obligation’. Over time, its usage expanded to include any activity or situation that must be performed or adhered to.

Usage Notes

The word ‘compulsory’ is often used in formal or official contexts, such as laws, regulations, or educational requirements. It can also be used in informal conversations to emphasize the necessity or obligation of a particular activity or situation. In some cases, ‘compulsory’ can be used to imply a sense of duty or responsibility.

For example:

1. “It’s compulsory to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.” (formal statement of a law)

2. “You’re not going to escape, it’s compulsory that you show up for the meeting.” (informal emphasis on necessity)

Cultural References

Compulsory has been referenced in popular culture through various contexts:

1. In Harry Potter, Hogwarts students are required to attend “compulsory” classes, such as Defense Against the Dark Arts.

2. In the movie “Hunger Games”, the Gamemakers impose compulsory tasks and challenges on the participants, testing their survival skills.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Sentence or phrase combinations using the word ‘compulsory’ include:

1. “Compulsory reading” (required reading for a course or assignment)

2. “Compulsory attendance” (mandatory attendance at a meeting or event)

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases closely related to ‘compulsory’ include:

1. Mandatory

2. Required

3. Necessary

4. Obligatory

Collocations

Common word combinations with ‘compulsory’ include:

1. Compulsory voting

2. Compulsory education

3. Compulsory insurance

Frequency of Use

The word ‘compulsory’ is commonly used in modern language, appearing in various contexts, such as laws, regulations, educational materials, and everyday conversations.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings and variations of ‘compulsory’ include:

1. Compulsory

2. Compulsive

Additional Information

Compulsory is often associated with the idea of obligation or duty. It can be used to describe any activity, task, or situation that must be performed or adhered to, whether by law, rule, necessity, or personal responsibility.

The concept of ‘compulsory’ has evolved over time, influencing various aspects of society, including education, employment, and social welfare.

In modern times, ‘compulsory’ is often used in the context of mandatory activities, such as vaccinations, CPR training, or environmental regulations, highlighting the importance of ensuring public health, safety, and well-being.

Furthermore, ‘compulsory’ has become a topic of debate in discussions regarding Personal Freedom, as individuals must often choose between personal desire and societal expectations.

This complex interplay between individual autonomy and collective responsibility continues to shape the concept of ‘compulsory’ and its application in various contexts.

The understanding and interpretation of ‘compulsory’ can also be influenced by cultural and social norms, emphasizing the significance of context and nuance in language usage.