WordGarden.iocompulsorily
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kəmpˈʌlsərəlˌi/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in a way that is required by a rule, law, or authority
Beyond the definition
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.
"Compulsorily" is an adverb used to describe an action that is performed because it is required by law, rule, or an external authority. It suggests little or no choice, implying that the person must comply even if they would rather not. Its root, "compulsory," serves as the adjective form, but the adverbial "compulsorily" specifically highlights the manner in which the requirement is enforced or carried out.
You will frequently encounter "compulsorily" in legal, regulatory, and official administrative contexts. For example, in some jurisdictions, land may be "compulsorily acquired" by the state for public projects. Similarly, commercial vehicles may have yearly inspections that are carried out compulsorily under the law. In these cases, the word emphasizes that the action is not a suggestion but a strict requirement of the system.
It differs from "necessarily" or "required" by emphasizing the element of enforcement. While you might choose to attend a professional workshop voluntarily, appearing in court after receiving a subpoena is done compulsorily. Think of it like this: if a friend asks you to help them move, that is a request. If a judge orders a company to release internal documents, that action is taken compulsorily. It denotes an action dictated by a higher power, leaving no space for dissent. Whenever you see "compulsorily," remember it means the choice has been taken out of the individual's hands by the force of rule.
Examples
- 1
University requirement
At this university, first-year students take statistics compulsorily.
- 2
Employee benefits
New employees are compulsorily enrolled in the company's pension scheme.
- 3
Insurance law
In most places, drivers are compulsorily insured against injury to other people.
- 4
Public works
The city compulsorily purchased several houses to widen the road.
- Patternpurchase X compulsorily
force the owner to sell it by law
See also
Similar
- mandatorily
- obligatorily
- by compulsion
Shades of meaning
- by law
- perforce
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- compulsorily acquired
- compulsorily detained
- compulsorily retired
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- compulsorilyadverb