prerequisite
Something required before something else can happen
Examples
In a meeting
“Completing the training module is a prerequisite for system access.”
Over coffee
“Having a driver's license is a prerequisite for renting a car.”
Why this word
requirement
prerequisite specifically means something needed BEFORE proceeding, while requirement is any condition that must be met
condition
condition is vaguer about timing and necessity; prerequisite emphasizes the temporal sequence and absoluteness
necessity
necessity describes general need; prerequisite specifically indicates prior fulfillment is mandatory
Usage tip
Use when identifying conditions that must be met before proceeding
Etymology
Latin: prae 'before' + requisitus 'required' (from requirere 'seek')
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
subsequent
Coming after something in time or order.
stipulate
To demand or specify a requirement as part of an agreement.
mandate
An official order or requirement to do something; to officially require.
precede
To come before something in time, order, or position
predate
To exist or occur at an earlier date than something else
chronological
Arranged in the order of time; following the sequence of events