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.

It said the small number of lives saved would be outweighed by the number of patients harmed by unnecessary treatment, which can lead to a loss of bladder control.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

“Where I saw unnecessary or excessive expenditure, I called it out.”

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

If the current arrangement reflects your father’s wishes and already avoids probate, changing it now could create unnecessary complications.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

If many of these patients do not actually benefit, doctors could eventually reduce unnecessary medication use, limit side effects, and make recovery regimens easier to follow.

From Science Daily • May 25, 2026

“We allowed unnecessary room. Ten couple may stand here very well.”

From "Emma" by Jane Austen

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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