What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extraneous
Example
Please avoid adding extraneous details to your essay. [extraneous: adjective]
Example
The speaker's extraneous comments derailed the conversation. [extraneous: adjective]
superfluous
Example
The report contained superfluous information that could have been omitted. [superfluous: adjective]
Example
Her argument was weakened by the use of superfluous examples. [superfluous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Superfluous is more commonly used than extraneous in everyday language. Superfluous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while extraneous is less common and is typically used in academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extraneous and superfluous?
Both extraneous and superfluous are formal words that are typically used in written language, such as academic papers, reports, or professional emails.
