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.

Pakistan has one of the highest rates of therapeutic injections in the world, many of them medically unnecessary.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

There are strange choices, plateaus and unnecessary dramas, but now there is a mettle.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

A lobbyist for San Diego Gas & Electric said he believed the audits were unnecessary because the commission was already reviewing the spending.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

"We express regret to the North over the unnecessary military tensions caused by the irresponsible and reckless actions of some individuals."

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

No unnecessary touching, but they were smiling and talking when they got off the boat.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson

Vocabulary lists containing unnecessary

List 3

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List 9

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"New Michigan Graduation Requirements Shortchange Many Students"

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