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supererogatory

Advanced (C1/C2)

IPA: /ˌsuːpəˈrɛrəˌɡætəri/

KK: /ˌsuːpərɪˈrɒɡətəri/

adjective
Definition

Describing actions that go beyond what is required or expected, often seen as unnecessary or excessive.


Example

Helping the community in such a big way was supererogatory, but it made a real difference.


Conversation
Sloth A
I thought his help was a bit supererogatory for such a simple task.
Sloth B
Yeah, but it shows he really cares about the team.
Sloth A
True, sometimes going the extra mile is appreciated more than we think.
Sloth B
Exactly, it can really boost everyone's morale!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excessive
unnecessary
superfluous
Antonyms
necessary
required
mandatory
Root Explanation

Supererogatory → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or beyond) and "erogare" (meaning to pay out or expend). The word describes actions that go beyond what is required or expected, particularly in moral or ethical contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of doing something 'beyond' ('super-') what is 'required' ('erogare') — that's why supererogatory means going above and beyond in your actions.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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