Unnecessary vs. Unnecessarily — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 22, 2024
"Unnecessary" describes something not needed, while "unnecessarily" modifies how an action is done excessively or without need.
Difference Between Unnecessary and Unnecessarily
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Unnecessary" is an adjective used to describe objects, actions, or processes that are not essential or required, whereas "unnecessarily" is an adverb that describes the manner in which an action is carried out, implying that it is done with excess or without necessity.
"Unnecessary" often applies to tangible and intangible items, suggesting they could be omitted without loss of function or purpose. In contrast, "unnecessarily" focuses on the approach or degree to which something is done, suggesting that a more simple or less extensive method could have been sufficient.
When labeling something as "unnecessary," the focus is on the item or action itself being redundant. On the other hand, using "unnecessarily" shifts the focus to the manner or intensity of an action, critiquing its execution rather than its existence.
Discussions about cost-cutting or efficiency often involve identifying what is "unnecessary" to eliminate waste, while advice on procedure or behavior frequently calls for avoiding doing things "unnecessarily" to maintain simplicity and effectiveness.
In terms of usage, "unnecessary" directly modifies nouns, as in unnecessary complications, highlighting objects or situations that could be avoided. Conversely, "unnecessarily" modifies verbs or adjectives, enhancing descriptions of actions or qualities, as in unnecessarily complicated.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adjective
Adverb
Modifies
Nouns
Verbs, Adjectives
Example Usage
Unnecessary risk
Unnecessarily risky
Focus
Presence of element
Manner of action
Common Associations
Redundant, superfluous
Excessive, overly done
Compare with Definitions
Unnecessary
Not essential; can be omitted.
The meeting was deemed unnecessary and canceled.
Unnecessarily
To a greater extent than is needed.
The project took up unnecessarily large amounts of time.
Unnecessary
Superfluous; more than what is sufficient.
His comments were unnecessary and hurtful.
Unnecessarily
In a way that is not needed or required.
He unnecessarily complicated the simple task.
Unnecessary
Not needed or required.
Carrying an umbrella was unnecessary on the sunny day.
Unnecessarily
More than what is reasonable.
The rules were unnecessarily strict.
Unnecessary
Redundant; serving no purpose.
Repetitive statements are often unnecessary.
Unnecessarily
Without need or cause; gratuitously.
He spoke harshly and unnecessarily.
Unnecessary
Excessive beyond what is appropriate.
The document included unnecessary details.
Unnecessarily
In an excessive or overly detailed manner.
She explained the instructions unnecessarily.
Unnecessary
Not needed
Some people feel that holiday insurance is unnecessary
Unnecessarily
In a way that is avoidable; needlessly
Thousands die unnecessarily from lack of basic health care
Unnecessary
Unnecessary things
Flora never wasted cash on unnecessaries
Unnecessarily
Not necessary; needless.
Unnecessary
Not necessary; needless.
Unnecessarily
In an unnecessary way; not by necessity.
He unnecessarily repeated much of what others had covered.
Unnecessary
Not needed or necessary.
The automatic child-frightener made clowns unnecessary.
Unnecessarily
To an extent beyond what is needed.
The food provided was unnecessarily generous, especially for an event meant to raise money for the hungry.
Unnecessary
Done in addition to requirements; unrequired.
Unnecessarily
In an unnecessary manner;
They were unnecessarily rude
Unnecessary
Not necessary; not required under the circumstances; unless; needless; as, unnecessary labor, care, or rigor.
Unnecessarily
Without any necessity;
This marathon would exhaust him unnecessarily
Unnecessary
Not necessary
Common Curiosities
How can using "unnecessary" change the tone of a statement?
Using "unnecessary" can make a statement sound critical or dismissive, as it implies something is not needed.
What are common contexts where "unnecessary" is used?
"Unnecessary" is often used in contexts involving efficiency, such as business processes, writing, or any scenario where streamlining is beneficial.
Why might someone use "unnecessary" in academic writing?
In academic writing, "unnecessary" can be used to critique or minimize aspects that do not contribute to the core argument or focus.
Can "unnecessarily" ever be used in a positive context?
Rarely, it might be used positively in a context where excess is seen as a form of thoroughness or carefulness, though this is uncommon.
How does "unnecessarily" affect perceptions of an individual’s actions?
Describing actions as "unnecessarily" done may suggest that the person is wasteful, overly cautious, or lacking in judgment.
What is the synonym for "unnecessarily" that has a less negative connotation?
"Excessively" can be a synonym with a slightly less negative tone, though it still implies more than what is needed.
What effect does using "unnecessarily" have in written communication?
Using "unnecessarily" in written communication can emphasize the writer's opinion that certain aspects or behaviors were overdone.
Can the misuse of "unnecessary" and "unnecessarily" lead to misunderstandings?
Yes, misusing these terms can confuse readers about what is considered essential or excessive, potentially leading to misunderstandings.
What is the impact of labeling something as "unnecessary"?
Labeling something as "unnecessary" often implies that it should be removed or avoided to improve efficiency or clarity.
Is "unnecessary" considered a formal or informal term?
"Unnecessary" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts effectively.
What kind of noun does "unnecessary" typically modify?
"Unnecessary" typically modifies nouns that refer to actions, objects, or processes that are deemed non-essential.
In what situations might "unnecessarily" be commonly found?
"Unnecessarily" is frequently found in contexts criticizing actions or methods, such as in editorial comments or performance feedback.
How do editors use the term "unnecessary"?
Editors use "unnecessary" to identify and suggest removal of content that does not add value to the written work.
What are examples of "unnecessarily" in a business context?
In business, "unnecessarily" might describe overly complex procedures, excessive meetings, or detailed reports that do not add significant value.
How can "unnecessarily" be effectively used in feedback to encourage improvement?
When providing feedback, using "unnecessarily" can help highlight areas where simplicity and efficiency can be improved, encouraging more streamlined approaches.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
