are superfluous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are superfluous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unnecessary or excessive in a given context. Example: "The additional details in the report are superfluous and do not contribute to the main argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Many scenes are superfluous.

The New Yorker

Sometimes lyrics are superfluous.

The Guardian - Music

Columbus Day's sentiments are superfluous.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even the poets are superfluous.

The Guardian

Words after the event are superfluous anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

In summer, vining houseplants are superfluous.

The New York Times - Style

This is not to say that economists are superfluous.

The New York Times

For many jobs, after all, lifelike features are superfluous.

The Economist

Any other calculations are superfluous, if not suicidal.

The New York Times

But most of the time his elucidations are superfluous and intrusive.

The New Yorker

Opening credits are superfluous and annoying, this we know to be true.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are superfluous", ensure the context clearly indicates why something is excessive or unnecessary. Providing specific reasons enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are superfluous" in simple sentences where a more direct synonym like "are unnecessary" would suffice. Overusing complex vocabulary can make writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are superfluous" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun or pronoun by indicating that something is in excess of what is required. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively communicates that something is unnecessary or redundant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are superfluous" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the idea of something being unnecessary or excessive. According to Ludwig AI, it is a valid and useful phrase in written English. Its prevalence in news, scientific, and academic contexts suggests a formal register. While alternatives like "are unnecessary" or "are redundant" may sometimes be more appropriate in simpler contexts, "are superfluous" offers a precise way to highlight redundancy or excess. When writing, consider that "are superfluous" is most effective when you're explicitly identifying items that could be cut or eliminated without impacting the core meaning. Ludwig's examples show various nuanced uses across diverse domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are unnecessary

This alternative directly states that something is not needed.

are redundant

This implies that something is repetitive and therefore not needed.

are not required

Indicates that something is not mandatory or essential.

are unneeded

A more direct synonym for unnecessary.

are excess

Suggests a surplus of something, making it unneeded.

are dispensable

Implies that something can be easily done without.

are gratuitous

Indicates that something is uncalled for or excessive in a negative way.

are inessential

Highlights that something is not vital or crucial.

are nonessential

Similar to inessential, emphasizing a lack of necessity.

are expendable

Suggests that something can be sacrificed or gotten rid of without significant impact.

FAQs

How can I use "are superfluous" in a sentence?

Use "are superfluous" to describe something that is more than necessary or not needed, such as "The extra details in this report "are superfluous"".

What can I say instead of "are superfluous"?

You can use alternatives such as "are unnecessary", "are redundant", or "are not required" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "are superfluous"?

It is appropriate to use "are superfluous" when you want to emphasize that something is not only unnecessary but also excessive to the point of being redundant. It is best suited for formal writing or situations where precise language is valued.

What's the difference between "are superfluous" and "are unnecessary"?

"Are superfluous" implies a higher degree of excess or redundancy compared to "are unnecessary". While both suggest something isn't needed, "are superfluous" indicates that the item is so excessive it's essentially pointless.