pleonasm

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/ˈpliː.ə.næz.əm/
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The use of more words than a meaning requires.
Practice using pleonasm in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The essay contains several examples of pleonasm.
  • “Free gift” is a pleonasm.
  • The editor removed a pleonasm from the sentence.
  • She used pleonasm to add emphasis.
  • That phrase may be a pleonasm, but it sounds natural.

Similar words

superfluity
wordiness
redundancy

Meanings

Redundant wording

noun
language
technical
A linguistic or rhetorical term for extra wording that can be accidental or deliberate for emphasis.

Examples

  • “Free gift” is a pleonasm.
  • The editor removed a pleonasm from the sentence.
  • She used pleonasm to add emphasis.
  • That phrase may be a pleonasm, but it sounds natural.
  • The essay contains several examples of pleonasm.

Similar words

redundancy
wordiness
superfluity

Etymology

From Greek pleonasmos, excess, based on pleonazein, to be more than enough.

FAQ

What does pleonasm mean?

Pleonasm is the use of more words than needed.

When is pleonasm used?

It can be an error or a deliberate emphasis.

How does pleonasm differ from tautology?

Tautology repeats an idea; pleonasm adds unnecessary wording.

How is pleonasm used in a sentence?

“Free gift” is a pleonasm.

Is pleonasm formal?

Yes, it is a specialist language term.

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