B1adjective1K

Unnecessary

UK /["/ʌnˈnesəsəri/"]/US /["/ʌnˈnesəseri/"]/

Definition

not needed; more than is needed

In simple words: Not needed or required.

Examples

  • The extra features on the app are unnecessary and make it confusing to use.
  • He realized that his comments were unnecessary and could hurt her feelings.
  • I think it's unnecessary to bring your laptop to the meeting when everything is on the agenda.
  • Spending so much money on an unnecessary gift can lead to financial trouble.
  • She often apologized for her unnecessary rudeness, but it kept happening.

Usage notes

Use 'unnecessary' when talking about things that do not need to be done or are not essential. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but could sound overly critical in casual situations.

Grammar pattern

unnecessary + object

Memory hint

Unnecessary sounds like 'un-necessary' — imagine packing a bag with too many clothes that are really un必要.

Collocations

  • appear
  • be
  • prove
  • completely
  • entirely
  • quite
  • to
  • appear
  • be
  • prove
  • completely
  • entirely
  • quite
  • to

Synonyms

  • unjustified
  • uncalled for

Antonyms

  • necessary
  • essential
  • vital

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'not necessary' which can imply a softer meaning.
  • Using in overly casual settings where simpler words would fit better.
  • Incorrectly using it as a noun form instead of an adjective.