What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
superfluous
Example
The extra decorations on the cake were superfluous. [superfluous: adjective]
Example
She added superfluous details to her story, making it longer than necessary. [superfluous: adjective]
redundant
Example
The old computer equipment was redundant and needed to be replaced. [redundant: adjective]
Example
The instructions were redundant, as they had already been given earlier. [redundant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Redundant is more commonly used than superfluous in everyday language. Redundant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while superfluous is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between superfluous and redundant?
Superfluous is more formal than redundant, which is often used in everyday language.
