What is meant by the term "extraneous"?

The term "extraneous" refers to something that is not pertinent or relevant to the matter at hand. It implies that the information, details, or elements being described are superfluous or unrelated, and therefore do not contribute to the understanding or resolution of the topic or issue being discussed.

In various contexts, identifying extraneous material can be essential for clarity and focus. For instance, in academic writing, extraneous information may detract from the main argument, making it harder for readers to grasp the central thesis. Understanding this definition helps in discerning what is necessary versus what is unnecessary in both written and verbal communication.