Tautological

usgb/ˌtɔːtəˈlɑːdʒɪkl/
adjective

Saying the same thing twice in different words.

The phrase 'free gift' is tautological because gifts are always free.
Visual representation of "tautological" - Saying the same thing twice in different words.

Often appears as...

  • tautological phrase
  • tautological definition

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "tautological"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Avoid Repetition

Use 'tautological' to critique unnecessary repetition in speech or writing.

Illustration for Avoid Repetition
His speech was criticized for being tautological as he kept repeating the same ideas.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Identify Pleonasms

'Tautological' often points out pleonasms, where extra words add no meaning.

Illustration for Identify Pleonasms
Saying 'ATM machine' is tautological because 'M' already stands for 'machine'.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Negative

Sometimes 'tautological' phrases can emphasize a point, though often viewed negatively.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
She found the repeated 'I do, I do' in his vows endearingly tautological.
Visual representation of the word "Tautological"

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