Definition

A word or phrase that uses more words than necessary to express an idea, often resulting in redundancy.

Example

Saying 'free gift' is an example of pleonasm because a gift is inherently free.

Conversation

Have you ever heard the term pleonasm?

Yeah, it's when you use more words than needed, right?

Exactly! It can make writing feel really redundant.

For sure, sometimes less is definitely more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pleonasm → It is formed from "pleon" (from Greek "pleon", meaning more or excessive) and "-asm" (a suffix used in English to denote a condition or state). The word "pleonasm" refers to a condition of using more words than necessary, hence excessive wording.

Memory Tip

Think of 'more' ('pleon') being used in a way that creates an 'excessive condition' ('-asm') — that's why pleonasm means using more words than needed.

Visually Confused Words