"necessary to" vs "necessary for"

Question

"necessary to" vs "necessary for"

Both 'necessary for' and 'necessary to' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Necessary for' is used when something is required for a particular purpose or outcome, while 'necessary to' is used when something is essential for achieving a goal or completing a task.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

Use 'necessary to' when something is essential for achieving a goal or completing a task. For example, 'It is necessary to study for the exam.'

Examples:

It is necessary to follow the rules.
Sleep is necessary to maintain good health.
Practice is necessary to improve your skills.
It is necessary to have a valid ID to enter the building.
Teamwork is necessary to complete the project.

Alternatives:

required to
essential to
vital to
crucial to
important to

Use 'necessary for' when something is required for a particular purpose or outcome. For example, 'Water is necessary for survival.'

Examples:

Education is necessary for success.
Good communication skills are necessary for teamwork.
Patience is necessary for learning a new language.
Experience is necessary for this job.
Nutrition is necessary for good health.

Alternatives:

essential for
required for
vital for
crucial for
important for

Answer 1

necessary to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

necessary for

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"necessary to" vs "necessary for"

necessary to

necessary for

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