Tautology
taw-TAHL-uh-jee
/tɔːˈtɑː.lə.dʒi/
The saying of the same thing twice over in different words, generally considered to be a fault of style.
Refers specifically to structural logical redundancy (e.g., 'free gift', 'ATM machine').
The story behind the word. From Greek 'tautologia', combining 'tauto' (the same) and 'logos' (word or reasoning). In classical logic, a tautology is a statement that is true by necessity because of its form.
Word relationships
- redundancy: 'Redundancy' is broad; 'tautology' is specific linguistic or logical repetition.
- pleonasm: 'Pleonasm' is using more words than necessary to express an idea.
- economy: Frugal and careful use of language.
- precision: Exactness in expression.
Commonly confused with
- theology: 'Theology' is the study of religion; 'tautology' is redundant phrasing.
Word family
- tautological (adjective): Redundant or needlessly repetitive in language.
- tautologically (adverb): In a tautological manner.
Collocations
- classic tautology
- avoid tautology
- pure tautology
- logical tautology
Idioms & expressions
- saying the same thing twice
- reinventing the wheel
Example sentences
- "Phrases like 'unconfirmed rumor' or 'short summary' are classic examples of tautology." Linguistic Critique
Memory hook
Tautology = Taught all over again unnecessarily. Tauto- = Same thing spoken twice.
When not to use
Do not confuse with general wordiness; tautology requires repetition of the exact same meaning.
Fun facts
- In formal logic, a tautology (e.g., 'It will rain or it will not rain') is a statement that is always true.
Explore more words
redundant, redundancy, automation, analogy, continually, a priori
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