extraneous

What does “extraneous” mean?

adjective.irrelevant or unrelated to the subject being dealt with.

SAT Usage

the term is often found in passages related to scientific analysis, literary critique, or logical reasoning, emphasizing the importance of focusing on relevant information. It suggests a distraction or unnecessary detail that detracts from the main argument or objective, distinguishing it from words like "ancillary," which may imply supplementary but still relevant content.

Common Confusions

Extraneous implies something irrelevant or unrelated to the subject, while ancillary usually suggests supplementary material that, while additional, is still relevant and contributes to the main argument or objective.

Example Sentences

• Extraneous substances were found on my cup of water.

Word Parts: How to Remember “extraneous”

Break “extraneous” into its parts: ex- (out of, from). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: ex- out of, from (Latin)