necessity
In most contexts, "necessity" is used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general state of being required. When referring to a specific object or requirement (like food or water), it becomes a countable noun. In these cases, you can use the plural form "necessities" to describe a group of essential items. It is often used in formal writing and logic to describe things that are inevitable or cannot be avoided.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is at her desk while David is in a meeting.
David Smith
Can we pivot the brand guide to include 3D assets? It's a strategic necessity.
Sarah
I'm already slammed. Unless you're paying me more, it's hardly a necessity.
💡
David uses 'necessity' in a corporate context to justify adding more work (using the buzzword 'pivot'), while Sarah uses it to push back, employing the slang 'slammed' to indicate she is overwhelmed with work.