In English, choosing the correct word form is important for clear and precise communication. Two words that often confuse learners and even native speakers are compulsory” and “compulsorily.” Though they appear similar and share the same root, they serve very different grammatical functions and should not be used interchangeably. Understanding the difference between compulsory and compulsorily can improve both spoken and written English. This topic explains their meanings, parts of speech, usage in sentences, and how they relate to the concept of obligation.
Understanding the Root Word Compel
Both compulsory and compulsorily come from the verb compel, which means to force someone to do something. This idea of being forced or required is present in both words, but the way they are used grammatically is what sets them apart. The meanings differ in how the obligation is expressed in a sentence.
Definition and Use of Compulsory
Part of Speech
Compulsoryis an adjective. It describes a noun and tells us that something is required or mandatory by rule, law, or policy. It often appears in formal, legal, or institutional contexts, such as education, military service, or health regulations.
Examples of Compulsory in Sentences
- Wearing a seatbelt iscompulsoryin many countries.
- English is acompulsorysubject in most schools.
- The vaccination becamecompulsoryfor all healthcare workers.
In these examples, compulsory is used to describe something that must be done it is not optional. The word modifies a noun and emphasizes that participation or compliance is required by an authority.
Common Contexts for Compulsory
- EducationCompulsory education laws ensure that children attend school until a certain age.
- LawCompulsory attendance in court may be required for witnesses.
- MilitarySome countries have compulsory military service.
The adjective is widely used in official documents and regulations to stress that the action is not a choice but a requirement.
Definition and Use of Compulsorily
Part of Speech
Compulsorilyis an adverb. It modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It describes the manner in which an action is carried out specifically, that the action was done because it was required or mandated. It answers the question how something is done.
Examples of Compulsorily in Sentences
- Employees werecompulsorilyretired after reaching the age of 60.
- He wascompulsorilyadmitted to the hospital due to his condition.
- All assets werecompulsorilyacquired by the government.
In these examples, compulsorily tells us that the action occurred because it was forced or mandated by law or regulation. It often appears in more formal or legal writing, and it may suggest that the person had no choice in the matter.
Typical Usage Contexts for Compulsorily
- EmploymentCompulsorily retired staff might lose benefits or face early pensions.
- HealthcareSome patients are compulsorily hospitalized if they pose a risk to themselves or others.
- LawProperty can be compulsorily seized under eminent domain laws.
This adverb is used when there is a need to emphasize that an action was carried out under obligation or legal enforcement.
Key Differences Between Compulsory and Compulsorily
1. Grammatical Function
- Compulsoryis an adjective it describes a noun.
- Compulsorilyis an adverb it describes how a verb is performed.
2. Sentence Position
- Compulsoryusually appears before a nouncompulsory training, compulsory rules.
- Compulsorilytypically follows the verb it modifieswas compulsorily relocated.
3. Expression of Obligation
- Compulsorystates that something is required.
- Compulsorilydescribes that something was done because it was required.
Tips for Using Each Word Correctly
Using Compulsory
Ask yourself Is this word describing a noun? If yes, compulsory is likely the correct choice. For example
- Compulsory military service “military service” is a noun.
- Compulsory insurance policy “insurance policy” is a noun phrase.
Using Compulsorily
Ask yourself Is this word describing how an action was done? If yes, you probably need compulsorily. For example
- He was compulsorily removed from office describes how he was removed.
- The company was compulsorily shut down describes how the shutdown occurred.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Compulsory as an Adverb
Incorrect The rule was enforcedcompulsory.
Correct The rule was enforcedcompulsorily.
2. Using Compulsorily as an Adjective
Incorrect Thecompulsorilymeeting will be held tomorrow.
Correct Thecompulsorymeeting will be held tomorrow.
3. Overusing Formality in Casual Settings
While both words are acceptable in formal writing, in casual speech or everyday writing, compulsory is more common and accessible. Compulsorily may sound overly technical or legalistic to general audiences, so it should be used with awareness of context.
Understanding the difference between compulsory and compulsorily helps make your writing and speaking more accurate and effective. Compulsory is an adjective that describes something required, such as a compulsory class or a compulsory test. Compulsorily is an adverb that describes how an action is carried out, usually under force or mandate, such as being compulsorily admitted to a facility. Using these terms correctly strengthens your grammar and enhances clarity. Paying attention to the roles that words play in sentences is a key step toward mastering the English language, especially when it comes to similar-looking terms with different functions.