WordGarden.ioprerequisite
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /prˌiːrˈɛkwɪsˌɪt/
US
- /priˈrɛkwəzət/
Meanings
Noun
something that is required beforehand as a condition for something else
a course, skill, or qualification that must be completed before another course or program
Adjective
required beforehand as a prior condition or preparation
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with LEGO bricks. You need certain baseplates and support bricks before you can start on the castle walls—those are your prerequisites! A prerequisite is something absolutely necessary that must happen or be completed before you can do something else. It is a "must-have" before you move forward.
Prerequisites aren't just for building toys. Colleges have prerequisites for courses—like needing Algebra I before taking Calculus. Job postings often list prerequisites too, such as a specific degree, specialized skills, or years of experience. You can even say that understanding basic grammar is a prerequisite for effective writing! Think of it as the foundation you need to build upon.
A prerequisite is something that must exist or be done before something else can happen or be achieved. It is a condition that has to be met first. In plain English, it means something required beforehand.
You will most often encounter "prerequisite" in the context of education and professional development. A college course might list specific classes as requirements: "This class requires completion of Biology 101 as a prerequisite." This means you must pass Biology 101 before you can enroll. Similarly, a job description might state that "a valid driver's license is a prerequisite for this position."
However, the concept extends beyond formal settings. You could say, "Having a good night's sleep is a prerequisite for performing well on an exam," or "Trust is a prerequisite for any healthy relationship." In these cases, it simply means something is essential before another thing can succeed or even begin.
Sometimes you will hear the term "prerequisite knowledge," which refers to the information or skills someone needs to understand a new topic. It is about having the foundational understanding needed to learn effectively.
Whether it is a course requirement, a job qualification, or simply a necessary condition for success, a prerequisite is something you must have in place before moving forward.
Examples
- 1
Course requirement
A basic math course is a prerequisite for this class.
- 2
Registration
You can't register until you have completed all the prerequisites.
- 3
Job requirements
The job has only two prerequisites: a driver's license and weekend availability.
- 4
Experience
Previous experience is not a prerequisite, but it will help.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Client work
Good communication skills are a prerequisite for working with clients.
- 6
Safety rules
The safety training is a prerequisite to using the lab equipment.
- Usage
prerequisite to + -ing is common in formal school or workplace rules
- 7
Background knowledge
The first chapter reviews the prerequisite knowledge you need for the rest of the book.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- qualification
- criterion
- condition precedent
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- prerequisite for admission
- course prerequisite
- meet the prerequisites
- prerequisite to success
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- prerequisitenounadjective
Forms
- prerequisitespluralnounadjective