Definition

In a way that is not needed or required; more than what is necessary.

Example

She spent unnecessarily long hours on the project, which could have been completed in half the time.

Conversation

I think we worry about things unnecessarily sometimes.

Yeah, like when we stress over small details.

Exactly! It can really take the fun out of things.

Totally, we should just enjoy the moment more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unnecessarily → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "necessary" (from Latin "necessarius", meaning required or essential) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unnecessarily" means in a manner that is not required or essential.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') and 'required' ('necessary') to remember that 'unnecessarily' means something done in a way that is not needed.

Visually Confused Words