Tautology is using different words to say the same thing twice. In writing, this is generally not a good thing. Cutting out tautology will make your writing more concise and professional, so watch out for these common tautology phrases while self-editing your writing.
Literal Repetition (Easy to Catch)
- ATM machine
- GPS system
- PIN number
- Please R.S.V.P.
- VIN number
- ISBN number
- DVD disc
Repetition by Meaning (Harder to Catch)
- I saw her personally
- prepay in advance
- morning sunrise
- frozen ice
- close proximity
- hot water heater
- dilapidated ruins
- In my opinion, I think . . .
- completely devoid
- 8 a.m. in the morning
- adequate enough
- come together in unity
- I thought to myself
- creeping slowly along
- new innovation
- I assisted her by helping her get to work
- shout loudly
- free gifts
Note that sometimes tautology can be used on purpose to reiterate something, as a poetic device, or to mock someone or something, but if it is used this manner, then it must be on purpose (see what we did there?).
What common tautology have you seen that authors should watch out for? Let us know in the comments below!
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