compulsory

Definitions

com- (intensifier) + puls (push) + -ory (relating to) = 'of the nature of being forced.' Something compulsory is pushed on you by law or rules — compulsory education is schooling you're required to attend, with no opt-out.

Common Collocations

• 1.compulsory education义务教育
• 2.compulsory purchase征购

Example Sentences

• 1.

  Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory in this country.

• 2.

  Maths and English are compulsory subjects at school.

• 3.

  Attendance at the safety briefing is compulsory for all staff.

Easily Confused

compulsory vs mandatory vs obligatory — all mean 'required,' and often interchangeable. compulsory is most common for education and rules (compulsory schooling). mandatory leans legal/official (mandatory sentence). obligatory can also mean 'done out of habit or for form's sake' (the obligatory polite smile).