essential vs necessary

Question

Essence means important parts of something. Necessity means what is needed. However in adj form, essential and necessary have subtle difference in meanings. Both of them can be used for describing what is needed. However, in adv form essentially and necessarily have different meanings.1) In both case can you describe the logic of the meanings in different forms?2) When should I use necessary and when should I use essential?Thanks

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Essence means important parts of something. Necessity means what is needed. However in adj form, essential and necessary have subtle difference in meanings. Both of them can be used for describing what is needed. However, in adv form essentially and necessarily have different meanings.

1) In both case can you describe the logic of the meanings in different forms?
Essential relates to the essence of something. Have a look at the dictionary definition of the word 'essence'.
Necessary relates to 'need', as you know.

2) When should I use necessary and when should I use essential?
In practical, everyday usage, 'essential' combines the ideas of 'necessary' and 'important'.
eg To do well in this exam, a pencil is necessary but a good knowledge of the subject is essential.

The word 'necessary' is, I think,more common than the word 'essential'.

Clive

Anonymous · Answer

I got it. Thank you.

essential vs necessary

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