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mandatory

Mandatory (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ˈmandət(ə)ri/

What does mandatory mean?

Required, obligatory, or essential according to a specific rule, regulation, or directive.
"The use of seat belts is mandatory in all motor vehicles."

Detailed Meaning of Mandatory

It means that it must be done, it is not optional. When something is mandatory, it is legally or morally binding and non-compliance is subject to penalties or consequences. For example, a mandatory law is one that must be obeyed, or a mandatory sentence is one that must be served. In the context of education, a mandatory class is one that must be taken in order to graduate. In the context of work, a mandatory meeting is one that all employees must attend. In the context of safety, a mandatory evacuation is an order issued by the authorities requiring people to leave their homes due to an imminent danger. In all cases, the word "mandatory" implies that something is required, it is not optional, and it is not open to interpretation.

Example Sentences for Mandatory

1. It is mandatory to wear a seatbelt while driving.
2. The company implemented mandatory safety training for all employees.
3. Vaccination is now mandatory for international travel.
4. Attendance at the meeting is mandatory for all team members.
5. The student must complete the mandatory coursework to graduate.
6. The company has a mandatory retirement age for its employees.

Origin and Etymology of Mandatory

The adjective 'mandatory' traces its etymological roots to the Latin word 'mandare,' which means 'to command' or 'to order.' This Latin term combines 'manus,' meaning 'hand,' and 'dare,' meaning 'to give.' Therefore, 'mandare' originally conveyed the idea of giving orders or instructions by hand. As the term evolved, it came to represent something that is required, obligatory, or essential according to a specific rule, regulation, or directive. The etymology of 'mandatory' underscores its historical connection to authoritative commands and the concept of something being commanded or ordered, leaving no room for choice or discretion.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective mandatory:

optional

voluntary

elective

compulsory

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Mandatory

1. The law requires mandatory background checks for gun purchases.
2. The airline enforces mandatory baggage weight limits.
3. The mandatory curfew was imposed to maintain public safety.
4. The workshop provides mandatory training on workplace ethics.
5. The school has implemented mandatory uniform policy for students.
6. The mandatory evacuation order was issued due to the approaching hurricane.
7. The job posting listed mandatory qualifications for the position.
8. The government introduced mandatory health insurance for all citizens.
9. The training program includes mandatory physical fitness assessments.
10. The court imposed mandatory community service as part of the sentence.
11. The project requires mandatory completion of specific milestones.
12. The student must pass a mandatory exam to proceed to the next level.
13. The team underwent mandatory drug testing before the competition.
14. The organization strictly follows mandatory financial reporting guidelines.