pleonasm Definition
the use of more words than are necessary to convey meaning (e.g. see with one's eyes), either as a fault of style or for emphasis.
Using pleonasm: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pleonasm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
'I saw it with my own eyes' is a pleonasm.
Example
ATM machine is a pleonasm since ATM stands for Automated Teller Machine.
Example
She is a single unmarried woman is a pleonasm.
Example
The wet rain is a pleonasm.
pleonasm Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for pleonasm
Antonyms for pleonasm
Phrases with pleonasm
double pleonasm
the use of two redundant expressions in the same phrase or sentence
Example
The ATM machine is broken down is an example of double pleonasm.
an expression that uses more words than necessary to convey meaning
Example
The phrase 'in my opinion' is a pleonastic expression since the speaker's opinion is already implied.
pleonastic word
a word that is redundant and unnecessary in a sentence
Example
The word 'very' is often used as a pleonastic word, as in 'very unique,' since 'unique' already means 'one of a kind.'
Origins of pleonasm
from Greek 'pleonasmos', meaning 'excess'
Summary: pleonasm in Brief
Pleonasm [ˈpliːənæzəm] refers to the use of more words than necessary to convey meaning, either as a stylistic fault or for emphasis. Examples include 'ATM machine' and 'wet rain.' The term extends into phrases like 'double pleonasm,' using two redundant expressions, and 'pleonastic expression,' using more words than necessary. 'Very' is a common pleonastic word.
