C1adjectiveformalpolitics
US/ɪmˈper.ə.tɪv/
UK/ɪmˈper.ə.tɪv/
extremely important and needing to be done or dealt with now
In context
It is imperative that both sides return to the negotiating table.
Quick action was imperative to stop the disease from spreading.
Experts say it is imperative to protect witnesses from threats.
Words that go with imperative
adverb + adjective
- absolutely imperativeIt is absolutely imperative that the vote is fair.
- politically imperativeCutting fuel prices had become politically imperative.
- morally imperativeHelping the refugees was seen as morally imperative.
adjective + preposition
- imperative thatIt is imperative that we act before the rainy season.
- imperative toIt is imperative to keep the public informed.