Have you ever heard a phrase that seems to say the same thing twice? Like “burning fire” or “free gift”? That’s often an example of a literary device called pleonasm. While it might sound like a mistake, it’s actually a deliberate technique writers and speakers use for emphasis, clarity, or stylistic effect. Let’s explore this interesting figure of speech in detail.
What is Pleonasm? A Definition
Pleonasm (pronounced plee-oh-nazm) is the use of redundant words or phrases. It comes from the Greek word ‘pleonasmos’ meaning ‘excess.’ Essentially, it’s saying something more than is necessary. However, it’s important to understand that pleonasm isn’t simply bad writing or accidental repetition. It’s a conscious rhetorical device.
Sometimes, pleonasm arises from historical usage, and words were once needed for clarity but have become redundant over time. Other times, it’s employed for poetic or emphatic effect. A key difference between pleonasm and simple redundancy is that pleonasm serves a purpose and it adds meaning, emotion, or texture to the writing.
Simple Examples of Pleonasm
- “Black darkness”: Darkness is inherently black.
- “Round circle”: Circles are, by definition, round.
- “True facts”: Facts are true by definition.
- “Silent stillness”: Stillness implies silence.
- “Empty void”: A void is necessarily empty.
The History and Evolution of Pleonasm
Pleonasm wasn’t always seen as a negative thing. In classical rhetoric, it was often praised as a way to enhance a speech or text. Over time, however, as language evolved and became more concise, pleonasm began to be viewed as wordiness. Today, it’s often discouraged in formal writing, but it remains a powerful tool when used deliberately.
Why Use Pleonasm? The Purpose and Effect
Even though it involves repetition, pleonasm can be surprisingly effective. Here’s how:
- Emphasis: Repeating an idea, even if redundant, can draw attention to it.
- Clarity: In some cases, redundancy can actually make a statement clearer, especially for a non-specialist audience.
- Stylistic Effect: Pleonasm can contribute to a particular tone or style—it can sound archaic, poetic, or even humorous.
- Emotional Resonance: The added words can intensify the emotional impact of a statement.
Pleonasm in Action: Detailed Examples
Let’s look at more complex examples of pleonasm and how they function:
- “He climbed up the hill.” The word “up” is redundant, as climbing inherently involves upward movement. The pleonasm here adds a sense of effort or struggle to the action.
- “I saw it with my own eyes.” The phrase “with my own eyes” is redundant – seeing always occurs with the eyes. This emphasizes the speaker’s personal witnessing of the event, suggesting certainty and conviction.
- “The fiery heat blazed.” Both “fiery” and “heat” refer to high temperature, making this example pleonastic. It intensifies the sensation of heat, suggesting a particularly intense or dangerous fire.
- “A new innovation” Innovations are, by definition, new. This highlights the freshness and groundbreaking nature of the idea.
- “Return back to the beginning” “Return” and “back” both indicate movement to a previous location. This adds a sense of completeness or cyclical action.
- “Absolutely essential” Essential already implies absolute necessity. Using both intensifies the importance of something.
- “Visible to the eye” Anything visible is, of course, seen by the eye. This emphasizes the clarity or obviousness of something.
Consider this excerpt from Shakespeare’s Hamlet:
“O cursed spite, / That ever I was born to set it right!”
The phrase “set it right” is slightly pleonastic. “Right” already implies correction, so “set it right” is somewhat redundant. However, Shakespeare uses this redundancy to emphasize Hamlet’s intense desire to restore order and justice, and the weight of his responsibility.
Distinguishing Pleonasm from Other Figures of Speech
It’s important to differentiate pleonasm from similar figures of speech:
- Tautology: Tautology is the exact repetition of words or phrases. Pleonasm uses similar words to express the same idea. (e.g., “It is what it is” is tautology, while “burning fire” is pleonasm.)
- Redundancy: Redundancy simply means saying something more than is necessary. Pleonasm is intentional redundancy used for rhetorical effect.
- Hyperbole: Hyperbole is exaggeration for effect. Pleonasm doesn’t necessarily involve exaggeration, but rather repetition of meaning.
Pleonasm in Everyday Language
Pleonasm isn’t just a literary device. It frequently appears in everyday speech and writing:
| Phrase | Explanation |
| “Close proximity” | Proximity already means closeness. |
| “Personal opinion” | Opinions are inherently personal. |
| “Free gift” | Gifts are generally given freely. |
| “Unexpected surprise” | Surprises are, by definition, unexpected. |
While these phrases might not be considered elegant in formal writing, they are common and often understood without issue.
When to Use (and Avoid) Pleonasm
Pleonasm can be a powerful tool, but it should be used judiciously. Here are some guidelines:
- Use it for emphasis: If you want to highlight a particular idea, pleonasm can be effective.
- Consider your audience: If you’re writing for a formal audience, avoid unnecessary redundancy.
- Be aware of the tone: Pleonasm can contribute to a particular tone or style—make sure it fits your overall purpose.
- Avoid cliché: Overused pleonastic phrases can sound stale and unoriginal.
In conclusion, pleonasm is a fascinating literary device that involves the deliberate use of redundant words or phrases. While it’s often discouraged in formal writing, it can be a powerful tool for emphasis, clarity, and stylistic effect when used thoughtfully and creatively. Understanding pleonasm can enrich your appreciation of language and enhance your own writing skills.