Needlessly

/ˈniːdlɛsli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a way that is not necessary or required.

He spent needlessly on expensive clothes when he could have saved money.

Without justification or reason; unnecessarily.

The project was delayed needlessly, causing frustration among the team members.

Excessively or unwarrantedly.

She apologized needlessly for something that wasn't her fault.

In a manner that lacks purpose or outcome.

They invested time needlessly in a strategy that had proven ineffective.

From the word 'need' + the adverbial suffix '-lessly'.

needless to say

A phrase used before stating something obvious.

needless suffering

Suffering that could have been avoided.

needless

Not necessary.

need

Require (something) because it is essential or very important.

Over the top.

That was totally needlessly dramatic.

No reason.

Why did he act that way? It was needlessly aggressive.