gratuitous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gratuitous Word Meanings
- given or done free of charge
- unnecessary or unwarranted
- extra or additional without necessity
gratuitous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gratuitous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡrəˈtjuː.ɪ.təs/
US
/ɡrəˈtuː.ɪ.təs/
gratuitous Word Etymology
Root: gratis = free + -ous = characterized by. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory: Picture someone giving away free samples at a store, showcasing that something can be provided without any cost or necessity, leading to its often unnecessary nature.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Gratuitous is a twofold adjective: it can mean something given or done free of charge, and it can describe something unnecessary or unwarranted. In common use, the word often carries a negative tone when describing excess, especially in violence, decoration, or remarks. Learners should pay attention to context: if the sentence is about cost, gratuitous often means free of charge; if it concerns value or necessity, it usually means excessive or unwarranted. In formal writing or media critique, gratuitous tends to signal disapproval. Don’t confuse it with gratis, which strictly means free of charge and is rarer in contemporary usage.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: gratuitous can mean free of charge or unnecessary; use berdasarkan context; avoid confusing with gratis; in critique it carries a negative tone; it's more common in formal or media language; check the surrounding adjectives for emphasis.
Common Misconceptions
- Gratuitous always means free of charge.
- It can only describe violence.
- Gratuitous and gratis are interchangeable in all contexts.
- It has no positive usage at all.
- It describes someone being generous.
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers often reserve gratuitous for negative judgments about excess, especially in media. Learners may overuse it with any extra item or misapply it to cheap freebies; in formal writing, it is best reserved for substantial critique.
Learning Tips
- Link the cost sense with free and the nonessential sense with unnecessary.
- Pair with related adjectives: gratuitous and unnecessary, gratuitous and excessive.
- Use in critique to convey disapproval; avoid airy usage in neutral prose.
- Watch collocations: gratuitous violence, gratuitous decoration, gratuitous praise (negative).
- Compare with gratis in formal contexts; gratis is rarer and more limited.
- Practice with antonyms: essential, necessary, warranted.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'gratuitous'?
A.Happy
B.Unnecessary
C.Fast
D.Big
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'gratuitous' used correctly?
A.The cake was delicious.
B.She finished her homework early.
C.He received a gratuitous gift from his friend.
D.The cat ran quickly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'gratuitous'?
A.Required
B.Essential
C.Mandatory
D.Unnecessary
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'gratuitous'?
A.Meaningful
B.Necessary
C.Generous
D.Free
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a gratuitous expense in real-life?
A.Required and essential
B.Thoughtful and kind
C.Interesting and engaging
D.Wasteful and unnecessary
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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