unrequired

unrequired

An unrequired gift sits unopened on the table.

Definition

Adjective: - Not demanded or necessary: "unrequired" describes something that is not asked for, not needed, or superfluous in a given context. It indicates the absence of a requirement or obligation.

Usage Examples
  • (The additional documents were not needed.)
  • (The apology was unnecessary because no one was upset.)
  • (The costs that were not necessary were removed.)
Advanced Usage
  • "unrequired labor": work that is not demanded or expected.

    • The volunteers offered unrequired labor to help clean the park. (They provided help that was not asked for but was welcome.)
  • "unrequired gift": a present given without any expectation or obligation.

    • She received an unrequired gift from a stranger, which surprised her. (The gift was given freely, with no strings attached.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Unrequited (adj): (of a feeling, especially love) not returned or reciprocated.
    • He suffered from unrequited love for years. (His love was not returned by the other person.)
  • Required (adj): necessary or demanded by rules or circumstances.
    • The required documents must be submitted by Friday. (The documents are mandatory.)
  • Require (v): to need or demand something.
    • This job requires a degree in engineering. (The job demands that qualification.)
Synonyms
  • Unnecessary: not needed or essential.
  • Needless: uncalled for; avoidable.
  • Superfluous: more than is needed; excessive.
Related Idioms
  • "Not required by law": a phrase indicating no legal obligation exists.
    • Wearing a helmet is not required by law for adults in this state. (It is not legally mandatory.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • Do without: to manage in the absence of something (often used with "unrequired" items).
    • We can do without the unrequired decorations for the party. (We can manage without them.)