adv

needlessly

Needlessly (adv) means In a way that is not necessary; without good reason. Example: “He needlessly apologized for something that wasn't his fault.”

adv

In a way that is not necessary; without good reason.

"He needlessly apologized for something that wasn't his fault."

How to use needlessly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing something without any real need to.

Common pairings

needlessly complicated worry needlessly

Word forms

more needlessly comparative, most needlessly superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He _____ apologized for something that wasn't his fault.

Etymology

From needless + -ly.

Synonyms

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unnecessarily

Related words

unnecessarily

Rhymes for needlessly

expressly aimlessly endlessly carelessly hopelessly painlessly fearlessly recklessly helplessly tirelessly ruthlessly selflessly

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Frequently asked questions

What does “needlessly” mean?

The word “needlessly” means in a way that is not necessary; without good reason. In plain terms, doing something without any real need to.

How do you use “needlessly” in a sentence?

Here is “needlessly” used in a sentence: “He needlessly apologized for something that wasn't his fault.”

What is another word for “needlessly”?

Words with a similar meaning to “needlessly” include unnecessarily.

What part of speech is “needlessly”?

“Needlessly” is an adverb.

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