superfluity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "superfluity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that exceeds what is necessary or normal. For example: "The superfluity of candy in his room was staggering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If Noguchi sculptures seemed superfluous on the pond in the Hill-and-Pond Garden, that superfluity called attention to the carefully placed bridges, temples, and specimen trees already there.

The New Yorker

There is also a superfluity of stop signals.

The Economist

There is no denying, though, that the superfluity could have been better handled, and that the poor freezing wretches immobilised outside deserved better.Inside, temperature and stasis are not a problem; things are simply slower.

The Economist

The overhaul, led by Mr Detter, exposed the superfluity of many SOE subsidiaries and other holdings, spurring the government to put three times more under the hammer than the nominally more privatisation-friendly previous administration had done.All of which points to a huge opportunity for governments to sell or sweat more assets, and by doing so reduce fiscal stress.

The Economist

The function of the music was, in the words of the foreword to Alceste, "to serve poetry by means of expression and by following the situations of the story, without interrupting the action or stifling it with a useless superfluity of ornaments".

Encyclopedia Britannica

The seeming superfluity of orchestral resource he called for, especially in the later symphonies, is handled with restraint and sensitivity Mahler was a conductor as well as a composer and knew well the capabilities of the instruments.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Whatever the justification for such assertions, it must nevertheless be recognized that neither of these authors suggests that aesthetic appeal or art are synonyms for superfluity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The ancient Greek philosopher Democritus explicitly denied any fundamental need for music: "For it was not necessity that separated it off, but it arose from the existing superfluity".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Before Botticelli, tondi had been conceived essentially as oblong scenes, but Botticelli suppressed all superfluity of detail in them and became adept at harmonizing his figures with the circular form.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pan-fried wild halibut was sweet and moist, and the accompanying shredded celeriac danced along with tiny St George mushrooms; the only bum note was a superfluity of lobster foam.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A superabundant art naturally produces superfluity lexical runoff, weak in nutrients.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "superfluity" when you want to emphasize that something is not only extra but also unnecessary or even detrimental. It adds a layer of critical evaluation to the idea of excess.

Common error

Avoid using "superfluity" to describe something beneficial. The term inherently implies that the excess is unwanted or unneeded. Use words like "abundance" or "wealth" instead if the excess is positive.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "superfluity" is as a noun. It typically refers to the state or quality of being superfluous, indicating an excess beyond what is required or necessary. Ludwig's examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, highlighting its role in describing excessive quantities or elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "superfluity" is a noun denoting an excess or overabundance, often with a negative connotation, indicating that something is unnecessary or unwanted. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is grammatically correct and frequently used in written English. It is most commonly found in news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific writing, reflecting its formal register. When using "superfluity", ensure the context aligns with its critical undertone, emphasizing the excess is not merely present but also undesirable. Consider alternatives like "excess" or "overabundance" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using "superfluity" to describe something positive; instead, opt for terms like "abundance" or "wealth" in such cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excess

A general term indicating a quantity or amount that is more than what is needed or normal.

superabundance

Similar to "overabundance", but emphasizes the exceptionally high degree of excess.

overabundance

Implies a greater abundance than is necessary or usual.

surplus

Specifically refers to an amount or quantity that is more than what is needed, especially in an economic context.

plethora

Indicates a large or excessive amount of something.

glut

Suggests an excessive supply of something, often leading to a decrease in value.

oversupply

Directly indicates that the supply exceeds the demand.

redundancy

Implies that something is unnecessarily repetitive or extra.

profusion

Signifies a large quantity of something spread or presented abundantly.

lavishness

Suggests extravagance and a great excess of something.

FAQs

How can I use "superfluity" in a sentence?

You can use "superfluity" to describe an excess of something, often implying that it is unnecessary or even harmful. For example, "There was a "superfluity" of information, making it hard to focus".

What are some synonyms for "superfluity"?

Synonyms for "superfluity" include "excess", "overabundance", "surplus", and "plethora". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "superfluity" a formal or informal word?

"Superfluity" is generally considered a formal word, suitable for academic, professional, or literary contexts. In more casual settings, simpler terms like "too much" or "extra" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "superfluity" and "abundance"?

While both words describe a large quantity of something, "superfluity" carries a negative connotation, implying the excess is unnecessary or unwanted. "Abundance" is generally positive, suggesting a plentiful supply that is welcome or beneficial.