Unnecessary

Definition

Unnecessary is an adjective describing something that is not needed, required, or essential.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈnɛs.əˌsɛr.i/
• Respelling: un-NESS-uh-sair-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈnɛs.ɪˌsɛr.i/
• Respelling: un-NESS-ih-sair-ee

Etymology

The word "unnecessary" originates from the prefix "un-" (not) combined with "necessary," which is derived from Latin "necessarius," meaning "essential" or "indispensable." It came into Middle English through Old French "necessaire."

Derivatives

• Unnecessarily (adverb)
• Unnecessariness (noun)
• Unnecessitated (adjective, rare)
• Unnecessary-like (adjective, informal)
• Pre-unnecessary (adjective, literary)

Synonyms

• Superfluous
• Redundant
• Unneeded

Antonyms

• Necessary
• Essential
• Required

Usage

The adjective "unnecessary" is used to describe actions or items that are not essential, as in "The extra decoration was unnecessary." It can also imply wastefulness, as in "He made an unnecessary remark during the meeting."

Related Terms

• Needless: Describing something not necessary or required.
• Optional: Referring to something that is not mandatory or required.
• Excessive: Referring to something beyond what is necessary or required.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Not needed or required: Describes something that is superfluous or redundant.
  • Example: "Bringing extra copies of the document was unnecessary."
• Not essential or important: Refers to something that does not contribute significantly to a situation.
  • Example: "The addition of a third speaker was deemed unnecessary."
• Wasteful or excessive: Refers to actions or items that go beyond what is practical or reasonable.
  • Example: "Spending on such luxuries was completely unnecessary."