Redundancy – does it really emphasize a point?
•October 1, 2025•
by DM Williamee
Word redundancy (not corporate downsizing) is something most are ‘guilty’ of, myself included. I have been known to use phrases such as “Close proximity,” “absolutely essential,” and “end result.” Truth be told, I still do, not even realizing I have done it. Hats off to anyone who has mastered the elimination of redundancy! But what is it, and why does it matter?
Word redundancy is the unnecessary repetition of words, phrases, or ideas that don’t add any new meaning to what you are trying to say. Unlike effective repetition, which emphasizes a point (and is another topic in and of itself), redundancy bulks up communication and makes it less impactful. Short and sweet for the win. But exactly how does it impact what is being said?