Word: Gratuitous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Basic Meaning: The word "gratuitous" means something that is unnecessary or not needed. It can also refer to something that is given free of charge, without having to pay for it.
Usage Instructions:
Use "gratuitous" to describe actions, comments, or things that are excessive, uncalled for, or lacking justification.
It can also be used in a positive sense when referring to things that are given for free.
Examples:
Unnecessary Context: "The movie had a lot of gratuitous violence that didn’t add to the story."
Free Context: "I received gratuitous tickets to the concert."
Insult Context: "His comment was a gratuitous insult that hurt her feelings."
Advanced Usage:
In more formal or academic contexts, "gratuitous" can be used to discuss legal matters, such as "gratuitous promises," where no legal obligation exists.
Word Variants:
Gratuitously (adverb): "She gratuitously offered her help, expecting nothing in return."
Gratuitousness (noun): "The gratuitousness of his remarks made everyone uncomfortable."
Different Meanings:
Unnecessary: As discussed, can refer to actions or comments that are excessive or unwarranted.
Free of Charge: Used when something is given for free without any expectation of payment.
Synonyms:
Unnecessary: needless, superfluous, excessive
Free: complimentary, free of charge, pro bono
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "gratuitous," but you could say, "that was over the top," to express that something was gratuitous in the sense of being excessive.
Summary:
"Gratuitous" is an adjective that describes something unnecessary or given free of charge. It can be used to talk about actions that are excessive or comments that are uncalled for.