Pleonasm (Noun)
Meaning
Using more words than necessary; "a tiny little child".
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The phrase "end result" is an example of pleonasm, where the word "end" seems unnecessary to convey the meaning.
- Avoid using pleonasm in your speech and writing, as it can make you appear insincere or redundant.
- Many common expressions, such as "free gift," contain pleonasm, making them less effective in communicating the intended message.
- A writer's skill lies in recognizing and eliminating instances of pleonasm to create more concise and engaging prose.
- The phrase "new innovation" is an instance of pleonasm, as innovations are inherently new concepts or ideas.