Meaning & Definition of word "Unnecessary"
Unnecessary
/ʌnˈnɛs.ə.sɛr.i/
adjective:
- 1. Not needed; more than is needed; superfluous.
- Example: The manager deemed the extra report unnecessary and chose not to include it in the presentation.
- 2. Not essential; lacking importance.
- Example: Bringing an umbrella on a sunny day seemed unnecessary to her.
- 3. Causing or resulting in waste or excess.
- Example: She viewed the lengthy explanations as unnecessary since everyone already understood the topic.
- 4. Serving no useful purpose.
- Example: The unnecessary decorations cluttered the space and made it feel less inviting.
- 5. Unwarranted or uncalled for.
- Example: His unnecessary comments during the meeting only served to annoy his colleagues.
Etymology
●From Middle English 'unnecessarie', from Old French 'unnecessaire', from Latin 'unnecessarius' (not necessary).
Common Phrases and Expressions
unnecessary evil:
Something undesirable but unavoidable.
raise unnecessary alarm:
To cause unnecessary worry or panic.
make it unnecessary:
To eliminate the need for something.
Related Words
need:
A requirement or necessity.
necessitate:
To make something necessary.
essential:
Absolutely necessary; crucial.
Slang Meanings of unnecessary
Meaning: Too extra
● Example Sentence: That outfit is just too extra for a casual outing.
Meaning: Over the top
● Example Sentence: His reaction was really over the top for such an unnecessary situation.