Words / C2

soo-PURFL-oo-uh-s/suːˈpɜːfluəs/

Superfluous means extra in a useless way — more than you need. Writers cut superfluous words; it is more precise than extra. In speech unnecessary is the everyday choice, though superfluous is one of the C2 words you may actually hear from careful speakers.

Meaning

More than is needed; extra in a useless way.

Examples

• “Cut the superfluous adjectives.”
• “The second password check proved superfluous.”
• “Strike out any superfluous plot twist.”

Good to know

Unnecessary extra. Everyday: unnecessary.

Near in meaning

unnecessary

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