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
1
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 notesIn plain EnglishDoing something without any real need to.
Common pairings
needlessly complicated
worry needlessly
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more needlessly
- Superlative
- most needlessly
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ apologized for something that wasn't his fault.
Etymology
From needless + -ly.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for needlessly
expressly
aimlessly
endlessly
carelessly
hopelessly
painlessly
fearlessly
recklessly
helplessly
tirelessly
ruthlessly
selflessly
See all rhymes for needlessly →
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.
