Syntax & Word Order

Pleonasm

PLEE-oh-naz-um / ˈpliːənæzəm

Using words that repeat information already given: “I saw it with my own eyes.” The repetition may emphasize a point or add unnecessary wording.

"free gift", "burnt fire" — or ritual doubling in scripture

Don't confuse it with Periphrasis. Tautology repeats the same *idea*; pleonasm repeats within one construction. Periphrasis reroutes; pleonasm just doubles.

Drill its family — Syntax & Word Order

Examples

I saw it with my own eyes.

Practice example · written for this exercise

Seeing already entails using one’s eyes; the added words provide redundant emphasis.

The rest of the family

Hyperbaton Anastrophe Periodic Sentence Cumulative (Loose) Sentence Parataxis Parenthesis Apposition / Appositive Zeugma Hendiadys Enumeration / Accumulatio Passive Voice Cleft Sentence