pleonasm

[ˈpliːənæzəm]

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

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.

  • 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'

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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.