Understanding the difference between “necessary” and “necessarily” is crucial for clear and precise communication in English. These words, though related, function differently and using them incorrectly can lead to confusion.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to mastering the usage of “necessary” (an adjective) and “necessarily” (an adverb), covering definitions, examples, common mistakes, and practice exercises. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone looking to improve their English skills, this guide will help you confidently use these words in your writing and speech.
This article will be beneficial for English language learners of all levels, particularly intermediate to advanced learners who want to refine their understanding of English grammar. Native English speakers who occasionally struggle with these terms may also find this guide useful.
By the end of this article, you will have a solid grasp of when to use “necessary” and when to use “necessarily,” enabling you to communicate your ideas more effectively.
Table of Contents
- 1. Definition of Necessary and Necessarily
- 2. Structural Breakdown
- 3. Types and Categories
- 4. Examples
- 5. Usage Rules
- 6. Common Mistakes
- 7. Practice Exercises
- 8. Advanced Topics
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 10. Conclusion
1. Definition of Necessary and Necessarily
The words “necessary” and “necessarily” are derived from the same root, but they play different grammatical roles in a sentence. Understanding their definitions and functions is essential for using them correctly.
1.1. Necessary (Adjective)
“Necessary” is an adjective. It describes a noun, indicating that something is essential, required, or indispensable. It signifies that a particular thing is needed to achieve a specific outcome or to fulfill a certain condition. In essence, something that is “necessary” cannot be done without or is unavoidable in a given situation.
For instance, saying “Water is necessary for life” means that life cannot exist without water. Similarly, “A visa is necessary for travel to certain countries” indicates that you cannot enter those countries legally without a visa.
The word emphasizes the critical importance of something in a specific context.
1.2. Necessarily (Adverb)
“Necessarily” is an adverb. It modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb, indicating that something is inevitable, unavoidable, or logically follows from a particular fact or situation. It implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where one thing leads to another as a matter of course.
For example, “If it rains, the ground will necessarily get wet” means that wet ground is an unavoidable consequence of rain. Similarly, “Being wealthy does not necessarily make you happy” indicates that happiness is not an inevitable result of wealth.
The word highlights the logical connection or lack thereof between two elements.
2. Structural Breakdown
Understanding the structural role of “necessary” and “necessarily” in a sentence helps in using them correctly and avoiding common errors. They fit into different grammatical patterns, each with its specific function.
2.1. Structure with “Necessary”
As an adjective, “necessary” typically appears before the noun it modifies or after a linking verb such as “be,” “seem,” or “become.” Here are the common structural patterns:
- “Necessary” + Noun: This is the most straightforward structure. For example, “Necessary documents” or “Necessary precautions.”
- Subject + Linking Verb + “Necessary”: Example: “The meeting is necessary” or “The repairs seem necessary.”
- It + Be + “Necessary” + That-Clause: This structure is used to express the necessity of a particular action or situation. Example: “It is necessary that you arrive on time.”
The adjective “necessary” helps define the noun and explain why it matters, especially in scenarios where precision is needed to avoid confusion.
2.2. Structure with “Necessarily”
As an adverb, “necessarily” modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Its placement in a sentence can vary, but it usually appears before the verb it modifies.
Here are the common structural patterns:
- “Necessarily” + Verb: This is the most common structure. For example, “This necessarily implies…” or “It does not necessarily follow…”
- Subject + Auxiliary Verb + “Necessarily” + Verb: Example: “You will not necessarily succeed” or “She does not necessarily agree.”
- Modifying Adjectives or Adverbs: “Necessarily” can occasionally modify adjectives or other adverbs, though this is less common. Example: “a necessarily brief explanation.”
The adverb “necessarily” clarifies the degree to which something is inevitable or unavoidable, adding a layer of precision to the statement.
3. Types and Categories
While “necessary” and “necessarily” don’t have distinct types in the same way as some other grammatical elements, considering different contexts can help refine understanding of their usage.
3.1. Types of Necessary
The adjective “necessary” can be categorized based on the type of necessity it describes:
- Conditional Necessity: Something is necessary only if a specific condition is met. Example: “A password is necessary to access the account.”
- Logical Necessity: Something is necessary based on logical reasoning or deduction. Example: “Sufficient evidence is necessary for a conviction.”
- Practical Necessity: Something is necessary for practical reasons or to achieve a specific goal. Example: “Proper training is necessary for this job.”
- Moral Necessity: Something is necessary based on moral or ethical considerations. Example: “Honesty is necessary in a relationship.”
Recognizing these categories helps in understanding the specific type of requirement being expressed.
3.2. Categories of Necessarily
The adverb “necessarily” can be classified based on the type of modification it performs:
- Modifying Verbs: Indicating that an action is an inevitable consequence. Example: “Lowering prices will not necessarily increase sales.”
- Modifying Adjectives: Qualifying the degree to which a quality is an inevitable outcome. Example: “A longer commute is not necessarily a bad thing.”
- Expressing Lack of Inevitability: Often used with “not” to show that something is not an inevitable consequence. Example: “Being intelligent does not necessarily mean you are wise.”
These categories help in understanding the scope and impact of the adverb’s modification.
4. Examples
Illustrative examples are crucial for understanding how “necessary” and “necessarily” are used in different contexts. The following sections provide extensive examples to demonstrate their proper usage.
4.1. Examples of “Necessary”
The following table provides examples of “necessary” used in various contexts. Each example illustrates how “necessary” modifies a noun or follows a linking verb to indicate that something is essential or required.
| Category | Example Sentences |
|---|---|
| Conditional Necessity |
|
| Logical Necessity |
|
| Practical Necessity |
|
| Moral Necessity |
|
These examples demonstrate the versatility of “necessary” in conveying the importance or requirement of something in various contexts.
4.2. Examples of “Necessarily”
The following table provides examples of “necessarily” used in various contexts. Each example illustrates how “necessarily” modifies a verb or adjective to indicate that something is inevitable or unavoidable, or to deny such inevitability.
| Category | Example Sentences |
|---|---|
| Modifying Verbs (Affirmative) |
|
| Modifying Verbs (Negative) |
|
| Modifying Adjectives |
|
These examples illustrate the various ways “necessarily” can be used to qualify the inevitability or unavoidability of an action or quality.
5. Usage Rules
Following specific usage rules ensures that “necessary” and “necessarily” are used correctly. Understanding these rules helps to avoid common errors and communicate with precision.
5.1. Rules for Using “Necessary”
Here are the key rules for using “necessary” correctly:
- Use “necessary” to describe nouns: “Necessary” should always modify a noun, indicating that it is essential or required. For example, “A necessary condition” or “The necessary equipment.”
- Place “necessary” before the noun or after a linking verb: It can either precede the noun it modifies or follow a linking verb such as “be,” “seem,” or “become.” For example, “Necessary precautions” or “The precautions are necessary.”
- Use “it is necessary that” for required actions: This structure is used to express the necessity of a particular action or situation. For example, “It is necessary that you submit your application by the deadline.”
Adhering to these rules ensures that “necessary” is used correctly as an adjective.
5.2. Rules for Using “Necessarily”
Here are the key rules for using “necessarily” correctly:
- Use “necessarily” to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs: “Necessarily” should always modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb, indicating that something is inevitable or unavoidable. For example, “This necessarily implies…” or “a necessarily brief explanation.”
- Place “necessarily” before the verb it modifies: The most common placement is before the verb. For example, “You will not necessarily succeed.”
- Use “not necessarily” to express lack of inevitability: This phrase is used to indicate that something is not an inevitable consequence. For example, “Being wealthy does not necessarily make you happy.”
Following these rules ensures that “necessarily” is used correctly as an adverb.
5.3. Exceptions and Special Cases
While the above rules generally apply, there are a few exceptions and special cases to consider:
- Formal vs. Informal Usage: In very informal contexts, the distinction between “necessary” and “necessarily” might be blurred, but in formal writing and speech, it is important to maintain the distinction.
- Elliptical Constructions: In some elliptical constructions, the full structure might be implied but not explicitly stated. For example, “Is it necessary?” could imply “Is it necessary for me to do this?”
Being aware of these exceptions helps in navigating more complex or nuanced uses of these words.
6. Common Mistakes
Avoiding common mistakes is essential for mastering the correct usage of “necessary” and “necessarily.” This section highlights frequent errors and provides correct alternatives.
6.1. Common Mistakes with “Necessary”
Here are some common mistakes when using “necessary,” along with corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| It is necessaryly to complete the task. | It is necessary to complete the task. | “Necessaryly” is not a word. The correct form is “necessary” followed by an infinitive. |
| The report is necessarily. | The report is necessary. | “Necessarily” is an adverb and cannot be used after a linking verb to describe the subject. |
| Necessaryly, we must act quickly. | Necessarily, we must act quickly. (Less common, but grammatically correct if implying consequence) It is necessary that we act quickly. (More common and clearer) |
“Necessaryly” is not a word. While “necessarily” can be used to imply consequence, it’s often clearer to use “It is necessary that…” |
| The necessarily information is missing. | The necessary information is missing. | “Necessarily” is an adverb and cannot modify a noun. “Necessary” is the correct adjective. |
| Is necessarily to bring a lunch? | Is it necessary to bring a lunch? | The correct structure is “Is it necessary to…” |
Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure that “necessary” is used correctly as an adjective.
6.2. Common Mistakes with “Necessarily”
Here are some common mistakes when using “necessarily,” along with corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Wealth is necessary make you happy. | Wealth does not necessarily make you happy. | The sentence needs the adverb “necessarily” to modify “make” and the negative “does not” to convey the correct meaning. |
| They necessary will succeed. | They will necessarily succeed. | “Necessarily” should come between the auxiliary verb “will” and the main verb “succeed.” |
| It is necessaryly true. | It is necessarily true. | “Necessaryly” is not a word. The correct adverb form is “necessarily.” |
| He is necessary going. | He is necessarily going. (Uncommon, but grammatically correct if implying inevitability) It is necessary that he goes. (More common and clearer) |
While ‘necessarily’ can modify ‘going’ implying inevitability, it’s less common. A clearer construction is “It is necessary that he goes.” |
| I think it’s necessaryly. | I think it’s necessary. | The adjective “necessary” is needed here, not the adverb “necessarily.” |
| She is a necessarily person to have on the team. | She is a necessary person to have on the team. | “Necessary” should be used to describe the person, indicating they are essential. |
Avoiding these mistakes ensures that “necessarily” is used correctly as an adverb.
7. Practice Exercises
Practice exercises are essential for reinforcing your understanding of “necessary” and “necessarily.” The following exercises provide opportunities to apply the concepts learned in this article.
7.1. Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with either “necessary” or “necessarily” to complete the following sentences. Choose the correct word based on the context.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. A passport is ______ for international travel. | necessary |
| 2. Being rich doesn’t ______ make you happy. | necessarily |
| 3. It is ______ to arrive on time for the meeting. | necessary |
| 4. This ______ implies a change in strategy. | necessarily |
| 5. The ______ equipment is stored in the warehouse. | necessary |
| 6. He will ______ face some challenges during the project. | necessarily |
| 7. Is it ______ to bring a gift to the party? | necessary |
| 8. More research is ______ to validate the findings. | necessary |
| 9. A good education does not ______ guarantee success. | necessarily |
| 10. The ______ steps must be followed to complete the process. | necessary |
7.2. Exercise 2: Correct the Sentences
Correct the following sentences, which may contain errors in the use of “necessary” or “necessarily.” If a sentence is already correct, indicate “Correct.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. It is necessaryly to study hard. | It is necessary to study hard. |
| 2. The report is necessarily for the presentation. | The report is necessary for the presentation. |
| 3. They necessarily will arrive on time. | They will necessarily arrive on time. |
| 4. Is necessary to have a visa? | Is it necessary to have a visa? |
| 5. Being famous is not necessary mean you are happy. | Being famous does not necessarily mean you are happy. |
| 6. The necessaryly documents are ready. | The necessary documents are ready. |
| 7. She is necessary for the team’s success. | She is necessary to the team’s success. (Less Common) It is necessary to have her on the team for success. (More common) |
| 8. It’s necessarily to understand the instructions. | It’s necessary to understand the instructions. |
| 9. He is a very necessarily person. | He is a very necessary person. |
| 10. Correct. | Correct. |
7.3. Exercise 3: Sentence Construction
Construct sentences using the given words and phrases, ensuring correct use of “necessary” or “necessarily.”
| Prompt | Example Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. (necessary / permit / enter) | A permit is necessary to enter the restricted area. |
| 2. (necessarily / guarantee / success) | Hard work does not necessarily guarantee success. |
| 3. (necessary / pay / attention) | It is necessary to pay attention in class. |
| 4. (necessarily / mean / easy) | Simple solutions do not necessarily mean easy implementation. |
| 5. (necessary / skills / job) | The necessary skills for this job include communication and teamwork. |
| 6. (necessarily / involve / risk) | Starting a new business will necessarily involve some risk. |
| 7. (necessary / identification / required) | Valid identification is necessary and required for voting. |
| 8. (necessarily / reflect / truth) | Popular opinion does not necessarily reflect the truth. |
| 9. (necessary / follow / rules) | It is necessary to follow the rules to ensure safety. |
| 10. (necessarily / equate / happiness) | Material possessions do not necessarily equate to happiness. |
8. Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding the nuances and subtle applications of “necessary” and “necessarily” can further refine their language skills.
8.1. Nuances in Usage
The choice between “necessary” and “necessarily” can sometimes depend on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. “Necessary” often emphasizes a requirement or condition, while “necessarily” highlights the logical consequence or lack thereof.
For example, saying “A strong password is necessary” emphasizes the requirement of having a strong password. On the other hand, saying “A strong password does not necessarily guarantee security” highlights that even with a strong password, security is not guaranteed.
8.2. Formal vs. Informal Contexts
In formal writing and speech, maintaining a clear distinction between “necessary” and “necessarily” is crucial. However, in very informal contexts, the lines might be blurred.
While this is acceptable in casual conversation, it is important to adhere to the correct usage in professional and academic settings.
For instance, in a formal report, you would always use “It is necessary to conduct further research.” In a casual conversation, you might hear “It’s necessarily true,” though this is technically incorrect, it’s sometimes used colloquially. However, formal writing demands precision, making it vital to use “necessary” and “necessarily” correctly.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section addresses common questions about the usage of “necessary” and “necessarily,” providing clear and concise answers.
- What is the main difference between “necessary” and “necessarily”?
“Necessary” is an adjective that describes a noun, indicating that something is essential or required. “Necessarily” is an adverb that modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb, indicating that something is inevitable or unavoidable. - How do I know when to use “necessary” vs. “necessarily”?
Use “necessary” when you want to describe a noun as essential or required. Use “necessarily” when you want to modify a verb, adjective, or adverb to indicate inevitability or lack thereof. - Can “necessarily” be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, “necessarily” can be used at the beginning of a sentence, but it is less common. It’s more common to see it placed before the verb it modifies. For example: “Necessarily, this implies a change in strategy.” However, it’s often clearer to rephrase the sentence. - Is “necessaryly” a word?
No, “necessaryly” is not a word. The correct adverb form is “necessarily.” - Can “necessary” modify a verb?
No, “necessary” is an adjective and cannot directly modify a verb. You would need to use “necessarily” or rephrase the sentence to use “necessary” correctly. - What is the correct structure for expressing that something is required?
The structure “It is necessary that…” is commonly used to express that something is required. For example: “It is necessary that you submit your application by the deadline.” - How do I use “necessarily” in a negative sentence?
Use “not necessarily” to indicate that something is not an inevitable consequence. For example: “Being wealthy does not necessarily make you happy.” - Are there any exceptions to the rules for using “necessary” and “necessarily”?
In very informal contexts, the distinction might be blurred, but it’s important to maintain the distinction in formal writing and speech.
10. Conclusion
Mastering the correct usage of “necessary” and “necessarily” is a vital step towards achieving clarity and precision in your English communication. By understanding their definitions, structural roles, and usage rules, you can avoid common mistakes and confidently use these words in your writing and speech.
Remember that “necessary” is an adjective used to describe nouns, while “necessarily” is an adverb used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
Continue practicing with the exercises provided and pay attention to how native speakers use these words in various contexts. With consistent effort and attention to detail, you will be able to use “necessary” and “necessarily” correctly and effectively, enhancing your overall command of the English language.
Remember to review the examples and rules regularly to reinforce your understanding and ensure accurate usage in all your communications.