needn't
AmericanUsage
See contraction.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It’s further proof that an award dictated by length needn’t be bound by anything else.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026
Those skeptical of the sway the public has over the Oscars needn’t look any further than back at that supporting actress category.
From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026
Yet the long-term trajectory for stocks suggests that investors needn’t wait for clarity before putting money to work.
From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026
Director of policy and advocacy, said: "It is also a timely reminder that, at a time when the government and regulators are trying to boost economic growth, strong consumer protections needn't hamper those aims."
From BBC • Nov. 17, 2025
“You needn’t feel too badly, Wilbur,” she said.
From "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.