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needless

adj. · adv.
US //ˈnidɫəs// UK //nˈiːdləs// need·less
  1. 1 unnecessary (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not needed, especially when it causes worry or trouble.

    unnecessary or redundant; often used to describe avoidable negative outcomes or actions.

    Example

    The long delay caused a lot of needless worry for the passengers.

    Example

    The report concluded that the restructuring had resulted in needless suffering for the staff, as many of the job cuts were later reversed.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the fixed phrase 'needless to say' to introduce information that is already obvious.
  2. 2 without cause (adv.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic

    in a way that is not necessary.

    occurring without necessity or justification. This adverbial form is largely replaced by 'needlessly' in modern contexts.

    Example

    The soldiers were put in danger needless.

    Example

    In the old chronicles, the king was described as one who would spend the lives of his subjects needless in pursuit of vanity.

    Teacher's tip

    This adverbial use is archaic; modern speakers should use 'needlessly' instead.
Origin

From Middle English needlees, nedelees, nedeles, equivalent to need + -less.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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