The English language is full of interesting linguistic phenomena, and one of them is pleonasm. You might not recognize the term, but you have likely encountered pleonastic expressions in everyday speech.
Pleonasm occurs when more words than necessary are used to express an idea. Sometimes, pleonasms make sentences more emphatic or poetic, but in other cases, they are considered redundant and unnecessary.
This topic will explore the definition of pleonasm, examples, types, why it happens, and whether it should be avoided in writing.
Definition of Pleonasm
Pleonasm comes from the Greek word “pleon”, meaning “more” or “excess”. It refers to the use of additional words that do not add meaning but may serve to emphasize an idea.
For example, in the phrase “free gift”, the word “free” is unnecessary because all gifts are inherently free. However, people often use this phrase to emphasize that something is truly without cost.
Examples of Pleonasm in Everyday Language
Here are some common examples of pleonasms:
- “ATM machine” – The “M” in “ATM” stands for “machine,” making “machine” redundant.
- “Burning fire” – A fire always burns, so “burning” is unnecessary.
- “Close proximity” – “Proximity” already means nearness, so “close” is extra.
- “End result” – “Result” already implies an outcome.
- “Unexpected surprise” – A surprise is always unexpected.
Even though these phrases contain redundancy, they are widely accepted and commonly used in speech and writing.
Types of Pleonasm
Pleonasms can be divided into intentional and unintentional categories.
1. Intentional Pleonasm
Sometimes, redundancy is used deliberately to create emphasis, style, or clarity.
Examples:
- “I saw it with my own eyes.” (“Own eyes” emphasizes personal observation.)
- “It was a tiny little house.” (Both “tiny” and “little” reinforce smallness.)
- “This is absolutely necessary.” (“Absolutely” strengthens “necessary.”)
2. Unintentional Pleonasm
In many cases, pleonasms appear in speech or writing without realizing they are redundant.
Examples:
- “Return back” (The word “return” already means to go back.)
- “Past history” (All history is in the past.)
- “Final conclusion” (A conclusion is always final.)
Writers and speakers sometimes use these phrases out of habit, even though they do not add new meaning.
Why Do People Use Pleonasm?
Pleonasm occurs for several reasons:
- Emphasis – Adding extra words can strengthen the meaning of a phrase.
- Clarity – Some pleonasms help make sure the audience fully understands a point.
- Speech Habits – Many people use redundant phrases without thinking about them.
- Stylistic Effect – Writers and poets sometimes intentionally use pleonasm for artistic impact.
Should Pleonasm Be Avoided?
Pleonasm is not always bad. It depends on the context and purpose of communication.
When Pleonasm Is Useful
- In creative writing: Redundant phrases can add rhythm and emphasis.
- In persuasive speech: Extra words can reinforce a message.
- In casual conversation: Pleonasms often sound natural.
When Pleonasm Should Be Avoided
- In academic writing: Clarity and conciseness are important.
- In professional communication: Unnecessary words can make writing unclear.
- In technical writing: Precision matters, so redundancy can cause confusion.
If you want to improve writing quality, it is best to remove unnecessary pleonasms unless they serve a clear purpose.
How to Identify and Fix Pleonasm
To avoid unintentional pleonasm, review your sentences and ask:
- Does this word add new meaning?
- Would the sentence still make sense without it?
- Does the phrase sound more natural with or without the extra word?
For example:
- Instead of “true fact,” say “fact.”
- Instead of “sum total,” say “total.”
- Instead of “advance planning,” say “planning.”
Pleonasm in Literature and Media
Famous writers and speakers often use pleonasm for dramatic effect.
Examples in Literature
-
William Shakespeare: “This was the most unkindest cut of all.”
- The word “most” is redundant, but it adds dramatic emphasis.
-
The Bible: “I am that I am.”
- This phrase is pleonastic but reinforces meaning through repetition.
Examples in Popular Media
- Advertising slogans often use pleonasm to sound more persuasive.
- “Absolutely free!” (Emphasizing “free” even though “free” is enough.)
- “Hurry up now!” (Adding urgency.)
Pleonasm is the use of more words than necessary to express an idea. While some pleonasms are unintentional and redundant, others serve a purpose in emphasizing meaning, improving clarity, or creating style.
Knowing when to use pleonasm and when to avoid it can help improve both spoken and written communication. Whether you are writing an academic paper or a casual text message, understanding pleonasm will make your language more effective and precise.