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

Using public warnings to create concern among subscribers is an unnecessary pressure tactic. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 1 Oct. 2026

Cohen touts her work supporting Assembly Bill 2353, which was signed into law in 2024 and helps nonprofit affordable housing developers avoid making unnecessary property tax payments. — Dakota Smith, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

The clearest signal is sustainable output, along with better quality, shorter cycle times, fewer rework loops and no increase in employee fatigue or unnecessary workload. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

The point is to allow young people to enter the workforce more quickly, avoid unnecessary costs, and continue accumulating skills over time. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 30 Sep. 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