superfluous

Superfluous is an adjective describing something that is more than is needed or useful; unnecessary or excessive. It is commonly applied to details, actions, decorations, or costs that exceed what is required for a particular purpose or that do not contribute to a desired effect. In writing, it often refers to words or phrases that clutter rather than clarify, such as superfluous adjectives or superfluous data.

Etymology and forms: the word comes from Latin superfluus, from super- “over, above” and fluere “to flow,” originally conveying the idea of overflow. In English it has produced related forms such as superfluity (the state or amount of being superfluous), superfluousness, and the adverb superfluously.

Usage and nuance: superfluous is typically a value judgment, implying waste or excess. It is distinct from extraneous (irrelevant to the matter at hand) and redundant (unnecessarily repetitive). For example, a report may include superfluous footnotes or decorative elements that do not aid understanding. In style guides, editors may advise removing superfluous language to improve clarity and conciseness.

Examples: “The presentation was marred by superfluous details.” “Omit superfluous words to achieve a tighter prose style.” In some contexts, the phrase superfluous to requirements is used to indicate that something is not needed to meet the stated needs.

See also: gratuitous, extraneous, redundant, unnecessary.