Definition

Relating to the use of more words than necessary, often repeating the same idea in different words.

Example

The author's pleonastic writing style made the book longer than it needed to be.

Conversation

I just finished reading that article on writing styles.

Oh really? What did it say about being pleonastic?

It mentioned that using too many words can make your writing less clear.

That makes sense; sometimes less is definitely more!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pleonastic → It is formed from "pleon" (from Greek "pleon", meaning more or excess) and "-astic" (a suffix used to form adjectives). The word "pleonastic" refers to the use of more words than necessary, hence indicating excess in expression.

Memory Tip

Think of 'more' ('pleon') being added unnecessarily to language, which is what pleonastic means.

Visually Confused Words