Needlessly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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needlessly

[ˈniːdləsli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in describing an action

In a way that is unnecessary or not required.

Synonyms

pointlessly, superfluously, unjustifiably, unnecessarily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
needlessly	Use when describing actions that are done without any necessity or purpose, often leading to waste. He needlessly repeated the same instructions The building was demolished needlessly
unnecessarily	Appropriate when describing something that could have been avoided or was not needed, commonly used in everyday language. You unnecessarily scared me with that prank He left the lights on unnecessarily
unjustifiably	Best used when actions lack valid reasons or justifications, often implying an ethical or moral judgment. She was unjustifiably harsh with her critique The costs were unjustifiably high
pointlessly	This fits best in situations where actions or things have no clear goal or benefit, often highlighting a lack of reason. They argued pointlessly for hours He wandered around the store pointlessly
superfluously	Used when referring to something that is excessive or more than what is needed, often carrying a formal or slightly negative tone. The report included superfluously detailed information He spoke superfluously at the meeting

Examples of usage

He was needlessly cruel to her.
She felt needlessly anxious about the situation.
The rules seemed needlessly strict.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in explaining a situation

In a way that serves no purpose or adds no value.

Synonyms

fruitlessly, futilely, uselessly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
needlessly	Appropriate when referring to actions or efforts taken without necessity or purpose, often implying that the action could have been avoided. He needlessly worried about the test, even though he had studied all week. The company needlessly spent a lot of money on an expensive advertisement that didn’t increase sales.
uselessly	Used to describe actions that serve no useful purpose or are ineffective, often with a tone of frustration or regret. The instructions were so confusing that I spent hours uselessly trying to assemble the furniture. He complained uselessly about the rules, knowing they wouldn’t be changed.
futilely	Best used in situations where efforts are not only unsuccessful but also appear hopeless or pointless from the start. She futily tried to convince him to change his mind, knowing he was very stubborn. He worked futilely on the old car, seeing that it would never run again.
fruitlessly	Used when referring to efforts or attempts that do not produce the desired result, often implying wasted time or effort. They searched fruitlessly for hours but couldn’t find the missing cat. I tried fruitlessly to repair my old phone, but it was beyond saving.

Examples of usage

He spoke needlessly, without saying anything important.
She wasted her time needlessly worrying about things that never happened.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

People often engage in needlessly complex behaviors when they feel anxious or uncertain, seeking reassurance.
Cognitive biases can lead individuals to perform actions that are needlessly elaborate, as they overthink potential outcomes.
Understanding the concept of needlessness can help in decision-making, allowing for simpler, stress-free choices.

Literature

Authors sometimes use needlessly in their works to critique characters who complicate simple situations.
In poetry, the use of needlessly can evoke feelings of frustration or humor, contrasting mundane tasks with the absurdity of overcomplication.
Needlessly is often employed in narratives to highlight the folly of human behavior and unnecessary actions.

Pop Culture

In sitcoms, characters often find themselves in needlessly awkward situations, creating comedic effect.
Social media trends can sometimes be viewed as needlessly extravagant, sparking debates about the value of simplicity versus extravagance.
The phrase 'needlessly complicated' is frequently used in critiques of modern technology, emphasizing user experience challenges.

Philosophy

Philosophers discuss the concept of needlessly in the context of ethical choices, urging simplicity in decision-making.
Existentialists encourage examining one's actions to avoid needlessly complicating existence with unnecessary worries.
The idea of minimalism in philosophy argues against living needlessly, promoting a simpler life focused on essential values.

Origin of 'needlessly'

Main points about word origin

'Needlessly' combines 'need' and the suffix '-less,' meaning without need.
The word first appeared in English texts around the 14th century, reflecting a growing interest in clarity of expression.
Its use suggests a context where actions or items are superfluous, showing a critique of wastefulness.

The word 'needlessly' is derived from the word 'needless', which appeared in English in the late 14th century, meaning 'not needing to be done' or 'unnecessary'. The addition of the suffix '-ly' transforms 'needless' into an adverb, conveying the manner in which an action is performed. Over time, 'needlessly' has become a commonly used term in English to describe actions or situations that are unnecessary or serve no purpose.

See also: need, neediness, needle, needs, needy, unneeded.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,751, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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18748 onshore
18749 reassessment
18750 reentry
18751 needlessly
18752 carotene
18753 hurdle
18754 tenet
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