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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.

Nepal's government has developed tough measures to stamp out insurance scams involving unnecessary helicopter rescues of trekkers, an official said Tuesday, a long-running racket threatening the country's vital tourism industry.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

This allows the system to plan more effectively and avoid unnecessary trial and error.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

The statement acknowledged that consequences for young people could be "far-reaching" and said that regulations on exemptions were being developed "in part to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy".

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Such seamless technologies teach us that repair and understanding is not our role and that such proficiency and knowledge is unnecessary.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Each man was allowed only eight pounds of provisions; anything unnecessary was left behind.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock