unnecessary

adjective

un·​nec·​es·​sary ˌən-ˈne-sə-ˌser-ē How to pronounce unnecessary (audio)
Synonyms of unnecessarynext
: not necessary
took unnecessary precautions

Synonyms of unnecessary

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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
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.
This can prevent some unnecessary side effects and protect your oral health. — Alexandra Frost, USA Today, 5 July 2026 Too much bending could result in unnecessary strain or even injury. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 2 July 2026 This opens the door for unnecessary power struggles and a child who may interpret everything as being up for negotiation. — Siggie Cohen, CNBC, 4 July 2026 Some critics contend that changes to both the structure of the energy industry and transmission systems make an incentive unnecessary. — Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unnecessary

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unnecessary was in the 15th century

Rhymes for unnecessary

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Browse Nearby Words

unnecessariness
unnecessary
unnecessitated
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Cite this Entry

“Unnecessary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unnecessary. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unnecessary

adjective
un·​nec·​es·​sary ˌən-ˈnes-ə-ˌser-ē How to pronounce unnecessary (audio)
ˈən-
: not necessary

More from Merriam-Webster on unnecessary

Nglish: Translation of unnecessary for Spanish Speakers

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