Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of supererogatory Precisely as Japan becomes a producer of Honda two-stroke engine motorcycles and other consumer distractions, Mishima is preoccupied with the glories of imperial Japan, revealed in the supererogatory sacrifices of its children. Michael Brendan Dougherty, National Review, 7 Sep. 2020 These supererogatory merits were at the disposal of the pope, who could, in effect, offer them for sale. Marilynne Robinson, New Republic, 12 Dec. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for supererogatory
Adjective
  • Wembley’s finest hour (or two) came when staging the 1966 World Cup final, when England’s 4-2 triumph after extra time over West Germany spawned surely the greatest-ever line of sports commentary.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The Chinese also presented the movie with 12 channels of sound, meaning the surround speakers got an extra workout that added to the visceral charge of the chase sequences and shoot-outs.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Once you’re done sucking away all that excess hair, use the detachable clipper to trim the hair without being tethered by a cord.
    Christine Persaud, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Plus, reducing portion sizes cuts down on the excess waste that’s become a major problem in the industry.
    Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • To mark the opening, Chick-fil-A will donate $25,000 to the Tarrant Area Food Bank and join the company’s Shared Table program, which redistributes surplus food to local nonprofits.
    Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Oct. 2025
  • But critics worried that any surplus designation would expose the city to unwanted development that could ultimately include housing, because once the Surplus Land Act is invoked, the law requires affordable housing be prioritized on the property.
    Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to the main section of the house, there is also space to put a small office or spare bedroom, as well as a bathroom.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 6 Oct. 2025
  • This player, furthest away from the ball, was spare.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 6 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Supererogatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/supererogatory. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

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