What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tautologic
Example
The phrase 'free gift' is tautological because a gift is already free. [tautological: adjective]
Example
Saying 'I saw it with my own eyes' is tautological because seeing something implies using your own eyes. [tautological: adjective]
repetitive
Example
The song became repetitive after hearing the chorus for the fifth time. [repetitive: adjective]
Example
The teacher criticized the student's essay for being too repetitive and lacking originality. [repetitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repetitive is more commonly used than tautologic in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more accessible to non-experts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tautologic and repetitive?
Tautologic is a more formal term used in technical fields such as logic or philosophy, while repetitive can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
