Gratuitous Meaning and Definition
Gratuitous
Pronunciation
/ˈɡrætjuːɪtəs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Gratuitous refers to something that is given or done without a specific reason or justification, often in an excessive or unnecessary manner. It can also describe something that is unwarranted or unprovoked.
Examples
1. “The movie included gratuitous violence that was not essential to the plot.”
2. “The company’s gratuitous donation to the charity was met with skepticism by some.”
Synonyms
1. Unwarranted
2. Unprovoked
3. Excessive
Antonyms
1. Justified
2. Necessary
3. Moderate
Additional Information
Gratuitous can be used to describe a wide range of things, from violent or explicit content in media to unnecessary or excessive actions. It is often used to express disapproval or criticism of something that is deemed unwarranted or unjustified.
In some cases, gratuitous can also imply a sense of indulgence or self-indulgence, as in the case of a person engaging in excessive or unnecessary behavior. For example, “The celebrity’s gratuitous spending on luxury items was widely criticized.”
It’s worth noting that the term gratuitous can be subjective, and what one person considers gratuitous, another person may not. However, in general, it refers to something that is excessive or unnecessary, and often implies a sense of disapproval or criticism.
Etymology
The word gratuitous comes from the Latin word “gratuitus,” which means “free” or “unearned.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe something that is given or done without a specific reason or justification.
Usage Notes
Gratuitous is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in criticism or analysis of media or behavior. It can also be used in informal contexts to express disapproval or criticism of something that is deemed excessive or unnecessary.
Cultural References
Gratuitous has been used in popular culture to describe a wide range of things, from violent or explicit content in movies and TV shows to excessive or unnecessary behavior in celebrities or public figures.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Gratuitous violence” – refers to violence that is excessive or unnecessary, often in a movie or TV show.
2. “Gratuitous sex” – refers to explicit or unnecessary sex scenes in a movie or TV show.
Collocations
1. Gratuitous violence
2. Gratuitous sex
3. Gratuitous spending
Frequency of Use
Gratuitous is a relatively uncommon word in everyday conversation, but it is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in criticism or analysis of media or behavior.
Common Misspellings
1. Gratutious
2. Gratituous
3. Gratuitus