Meaning & Definition of word "Pleonasm"
Pleonasm
/ˈpliːəˌnæzəm/
noun:
- 1. The use of more words than necessary to convey meaning; redundancy.
- Example: The phrase 'free gift' is a common example of pleonasm.
- 2. An instance of pleonasm; an expression that contains redundant words.
- Example: When he said 'repeat again,' it was a clear instance of pleonasm.
- 3. A stylistic fault in writing or speech that occurs when more words than needed are used.
- Example: Her writing was criticized for its pleonasm, making it less effective.
- 4. The use of excessive words or phrases that essentially say the same thing.
- Example: Describing the committee's decisions as 'joint and collective' is a pleonasm.
Etymology
●From Greek 'pleonasmós', from 'pleonazō' meaning 'to be more than enough'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
free gift:
A gift that is given without charge, emphasizing that it is free, which is redundant.
true fact:
A fact that is confirmed to be true, where 'true' is unnecessary.
Related Words
redundancy:
The state of being unnecessary or superfluous; the inclusion of more information than needed.
tautology:
The redundant repetition of a phrase or idea using different words.
Slang Meanings of pleonasm
Meaning: Wordiness
● Example Sentence: When someone over-explains something, you might say they're being wordy.
Meaning: Repeatitive speak
● Example Sentence: In meetings, there's often a lot of repetitive speak that's just pleonasm.