When learning English, one common challenge is understanding the difference between similar words. Two words that often confuse learners are “necessary” and “necessarily.” They sound similar, but their meanings and uses are different. This article will help you understand these words better. In this article, we will look at what these words mean and how to use them correctly.
What Does “Necessary” Mean?
The word “necessary” is an adjective. An adjective is a word that describes a noun. A noun is a person, place, thing, or idea. “Necessary” means that something is needed or important. It tells us about something we cannot do without.
For example:
- “Water is necessary for life.” (Here, “necessary” describes what is needed for life.)
- “It’s necessary to wear a helmet when riding a bike.” (In this sentence, “necessary” tells us that wearing a helmet is important for safety.)
What Does “Necessarily” Mean?
On the other hand, “necessarily” is an adverb. Adverbs are words that modify or change the meaning of a verb (an action), an adjective (like “necessary”), or even another adverb. They often tell us how, when, where, or to what extent something is done. “Necessarily” means “as a necessary result” or “inevitably.”
For example:
- If you work hard, you will necessarily succeed.
- It does not necessarily mean he is angry if he is quiet.
Here, “necessarily” tells us about the certainty of succeeding with hard work or the uncertainty of someone’s anger.
How to Use “Necessary” and “Necessarily”
“Necessary” and “necessarily” are related words that are often used to convey the idea of requirement or inevitability. Here’s how you can use them:
Using “Necessary”:
-
- When talking about something important or needed.
- As an adjective, it comes before a noun.
Examples:
-
- A passport is necessary for international travel.
- It is necessary to have a ticket to enter the concert.
Using “Necessarily”:
-
- When talking about something that is certain or sure to happen.
- As an adverb, it can modify a verb, an adjective, or another adverb.
Examples:
-
- Studying hard doesn’t necessarily guarantee success.
- Just because it’s raining, it doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t go out.
Tips to Remember
- Necessary = Need: If you are talking about something you need or must have, use “necessary.”
- Necessarily = Certainty: If you are talking about something that is sure or definite, use “necessarily.”
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