unnecessary

adjective

un·​nec·​es·​sary ˌən-ˈne-sə-ˌser-ē 

: not necessary

took unnecessary precautions

Synonyms of unnecessary

• extra
• optional
• needless
• irrelevant
• nonessential
• unwarranted
• redundant
• dispensable

Examples of unnecessary in a Sentence

In this city, owning a car is unnecessary.

Let's not take any unnecessary risks.

Recent Examples on the Web

Supporters highlight the other types of revenue data centers bring in and credit the incentive with helping Texas become a leader in the industry, but opponents say the tax break is unnecessary and puts business over people. — Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 July 2026

Others argue that a gift should already be considered an exchange for the parents’ effort and expense, making an additional tip feel unnecessary. — Annabelle Canela, Parents, 26 July 2026

The league shifted its approach to officiating this season with an emphasis on increasing foul calls and diluting the amount of unnecessary physicality in the game. — Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026

Write down the loop, cancel one unnecessary demand, and give your nervous system room to reset. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unnecessary

• accretionary
• apothecary
• bicentenary
• certiorari
• concessionary
• concretionary
• confectionary
• confectionery
• constabulary
• contemporary
• deflationary
• depositary

Kids Definition

unnecessary

adjective

un·​nec·​es·​sary ˌən-ˈnes-ə-ˌser-ē 

ˈən-

: not necessary