The Annoyance of Redundant Phrases

Redundancy in language often creeps in unconsciously, via idioms and aphorisms that have become so overused that they have lost their original meaning. In this article, we will delve deeper into the nuances of redundant phrases, their impact on communication, and ways of avoiding them.

What are Redundant Phrases?

Redundant phrases, also known as pleonasms, are utterances where one or more words add nothing to the meaning of the sentence. For example, “free gift,” “true facts,” and “end result” are all redundant phrases. Others such as “ATM machine,” “PIN number,” and “LCD display” are commonly used even though they contain an acronym that is repeated within the phrase itself.

While some of these phrases might sound perfectly normal and even emphasize meaning to the listener, they can also be a distraction and make communication less clear. Ironically, when words are added unnecessarily to any sentence, they can sometimes have the opposite effect of what the speaker intends to communicate.

The Impact of Redundancy

Redundant words can clutter up a sentence, making it longer than necessary, and clouding the meaning. At worst, they can make the speaker appear incongruous or unprofessional. Moreover, redundancy can also make communication less effective. Instead of focusing on what the speaker is trying to convey, the listener might get sidetracked by the annoying noise of unnecessary words.

Additionally, redundant phrases can make sentences appear repetitious, hence becoming a sign of bad writing. Finally, it is also worth noting that the use of pleonasms can lead to language inflation, whereby words lose their true meaning and becoming diluted.

How to Avoid Redundancy

Avoiding redundant phrases is easy. All it takes is a bit of care and effort to eliminate unnecessary words from sentences. Here are some handy tips to help you navigate through the minefield of redundant phrases:

• Avoid using phrases that contain the same meaning or ideas. For instance, instead of saying “repeat again,” keep it simple by saying “repeat”.
• Use the simplest and most straightforward language possible. Instead of saying “I have a question to ask you,” simply say “I have a question.”
• Always proofread your work to avoid repetitions, especially if you’re writing in a formal context like job applications or academic essays.

Always remember, concise writing is better than wordy, redundant writing. Reducing redundancy makes writing clear, focused, and effective. While it is not always possible to avoid redundant phrases, it is necessary to recognize and eliminate them when possible. Mastery of pleonasms is an essential part of mastering the art of communication.