What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unnecessary
Example
The extra decorations were unnecessary and made the room look cluttered. [unnecessary: adjective]
Example
It's unnecessary to repeat the same information twice. [unnecessary: adverb]
unneeded
Example
The unneeded supplies were taking up valuable space in the storage room. [unneeded: adjective]
Example
We can eliminate the unneeded steps in the process to save time. [unneeded: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unnecessary is more commonly used than unneeded in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unnecessary and unneeded?
Unnecessary is more formal than unneeded, and it is often used in academic or professional settings.