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Definitions from the Web

Gratuitous

Definition:

An adjective that describes something given or done without any apparent reason or justification.

Senses:

Sense 1:

Unnecessary or excessive; lacking a valid reason or purpose.

Example sentence: The movie was filled with gratuitous violence that added nothing to the plot.

Sense 2:

Given or received without payment; free.

Example sentence: The organizer provided gratuitous food and beverages for all attendees.

Usages:

Popular usage:

In common parlance, 'gratuitous' often refers to something unnecessary or overdone.

Example sentence: The actor's gratuitous use of profanity in the play offended many audience members.

Local usage:

In local dialects, 'gratuitous' can also mean being generous or giving something unexpectedly.

Example sentence: In our small town, it was considered gratuitous to help the neighbors without asking anything in return.

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