Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

sine qua non

noun
/ˌsī-ˌnā kwä-ˈnōn/
Definition
An essential condition or element; a thing that is absolutely necessary.
Examples
  • Trust is the sine qua non of any successful relationship.
  • For a good education, a supportive environment is a sine qua non.
Meaning
The term sine qua non refers to something that is indispensable or crucial for a particular outcome or situation.
Synonyms
  • Essential
  • Indispensable
  • Prerequisite