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.

Authorities said Mareik and her co-conspirators billed California’s Medi-Cal program tens of millions of dollars a month for medically unnecessary, high-reimbursement generic drugs that were dispensed outside the program’s contracted pharmacy network.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

Some projects have been viewed as gaudy or unnecessary, while others have been applauded by local residents.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2026

It’s yet another swiped idea, this one from “Mad Max: Fury Road,” for a minor story beat that’s unnecessary.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2026

“Americans deserve innovation that does not create unnecessary energy costs.”

From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026

She looked up, but Chess’s caution was unnecessary.

From "The Strangers" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

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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