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compulsorily

C2
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /kəmpˈʌlsərəlˌi/

US

  • /kəmpˈʌlsɔːrəli/

Description

Imagine a school where everyone must wear a uniform—not because they want to, but because the rules leave no other choice. That is the essence of "compulsorily." This adverb describes something done because a rule, law, or official order requires it; it is the opposite of doing something voluntarily. For instance, in many places, children are vaccinated compulsorily to protect public health.

The word is closely tied to "compel," which means to force someone to do something. If a government says that all citizens must take part in a census, then participation is required—there is no room for refusal. You will typically find this word in formal contexts like legal documents or official announcements. In everyday conversation, people often use simpler phrases like "must" or "have to" instead.

Examples

  1. 1

    University requirement

    At this university, first-year students take statistics compulsorily.

  2. 2

    Employee benefits

    New employees are compulsorily enrolled in the company's pension scheme.

  3. 3

    Insurance law

    In most places, drivers are compulsorily insured against injury to other people.

  4. 4

    Public works

    The city compulsorily purchased several houses to widen the road.

    • Pattern

      purchase X compulsorily

      force the owner to sell it by law

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • compulsorilyadverb