Definitions

unnecessary

[uhn-nes-uh-ser-ee] / ʌnˈnɛs əˌsɛr i /

ADJECTIVE

not required

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avoidable futile gratuitous irrelevant needless redundant superfluous unneeded useless worthless

WEAK

accidental additional beside the point casual causeless chance dispensable excess exorbitant expendable extraneous extrinsic fortuitous haphazard inessential lavish noncompulsory nonessential optional prodigal profuse random supererogatory surplus uncalled-for uncritical undesirable unessential unrequired wanton

Antonyms

STRONGEST

necessary needed valuable worthwhile

WEAK

indispensable required

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Unnecessary sequels that a bunch of suits knew would rake in the dough.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2024

But the timing has raised suspicions that she's using it to divert attention from her own SUV - as in Startlingly Unnecessary Voyage.

From BBC • Nov. 15, 2023

Maybe “Games with Unnecessary Meaning in an Attempt to Jazz Up the Beginning of the Regular Season with New Courts and an Extra Trophy” was already taken.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 11, 2023

Unnecessary testing, he pointed out, can lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

From New York Times • Jul. 23, 2023

Unnecessary Cruelty It is not a pleasant landing in the land of light and liberty.

From Aliens or Americans? by Grose, Howard B. (Howard Benjamin)

Vocabulary lists containing unnecessary

List 3

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List 9

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"New Michigan Graduation Requirements Shortchange Many Students"

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