Words / C1

pree-REKW-uh-zit/ˌpriːˈrekwəzɪt/

A prerequisite is something that must be in place before the next step is possible: grammar is a prerequisite for this course. Requirement is everyday and can be simultaneous; precondition is a close formal cousin. Pattern: a prerequisite for / of. As an adjective: prerequisite knowledge. In speech, you need X first is enough.

Meaning

Something that must exist or happen before something else is possible.

Examples

• “Basic grammar is a prerequisite for this course.”
• “Trust is a prerequisite of any honest review.”
• “The visa lists vaccination as a prerequisite, not a suggestion.”

Good to know

a prerequisite for/of. Must come first. Everyday: requirement / you need X first. Adjective possible.

Near in meaning

requirement

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