1
as in free
not costing or charging anything
A local veterinary technician provides gratuitous services to the animal shelter twice a month.
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in unnecessary
not needed by the circumstances or to accomplish an end
that violent scene was completely gratuitous and didn't need to be in the movie at all
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of gratuitous
While no group has taken credit for the gratuitous act of destruction, according to the university's Division of Public Safety & Security (DPSS), papers found around the site outlined the apparent motive.
—
Kyle Schmidbauer, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2025
Centering the action with gore and gratuitous violence up front gave it an identity that was then doubled down upon in every subsequent release .
—Diego Argüello, Rolling Stone, 22 Mar. 2025
But this is not the kind of movie that hinges on abrupt reveals or gratuitous twists.
—Jessica Kiang, Variety, 14 May 2025
For Sam Tanenhaus to out Bill Rusher 14 years after his death, with no supporting evidence and to no narrative purpose, is wholly gratuitous.
—Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuitous
Kyle Schmidbauer, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2025
Centering the action with gore and gratuitous violence up front gave it an identity that was then doubled down upon in every subsequent release .
—Diego Argüello, Rolling Stone, 22 Mar. 2025
But this is not the kind of movie that hinges on abrupt reveals or gratuitous twists.
—Jessica Kiang, Variety, 14 May 2025
For Sam Tanenhaus to out Bill Rusher 14 years after his death, with no supporting evidence and to no narrative purpose, is wholly gratuitous.
—Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 13 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuitous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gratuitous
Adjective
-
Mitchell, 29, heard of the Summer Saturdays market through word of mouth, a free venue.—
Allana Smith,
Freep.com,
13 July 2025
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The first 500 customers at the July 19 grand opening will gain a digital offer in the Tim Hortons app that can be activated once a day for a month and is good for one free small coffee, hot or iced with flavors and modifiers included, according to the company.—
Andy Humbles,
The Tennessean,
13 July 2025
Adjective
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In plain terms, Virginia will now use AI to help cut unnecessary regulations while ensuring state rules stay clear and up to date.—
Shirleen Guerra,
The Washington Examiner,
13 July 2025
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The new technology, called Hazard Services, will provide geographically precise alerts that could dramatically reduce unnecessary evacuations while ensuring those in genuine danger receive timely warnings.—
Adeola Adeosun,
MSNBC Newsweek,
12 July 2025
Adjective
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Once in the main lounge, La Première customers can now book optional suites with a butler, a spacious living room, a bedroom with a double bed, a bathroom, and even an outdoor patio.—
Michele Robson,
Fortune,
5 July 2025
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Inside, a breathable mesh pocket adds room for silverware, snacks, or an optional ice pack, and the gingham print makes lunch feel like a picnic.—
Lauren Thomann,
Better Homes & Gardens,
3 July 2025
Adjective
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There’s high-speed WiFi, wheelchair-accessible rooms, and a complimentary continental breakfast.—
Lydia Mansel,
Southern Living,
5 July 2025
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Those who are Diamond Club members can also get a complimentary $2 bet and tip sheet, enhancing their experience as horseplayers.—
Kelley Carlson,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
5 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Gratuitous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gratuitous. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.
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