Pleonasm

If you want to make absolutely sure that people have completely understood what you are trying to say, repeat yourself again and again and again.

And again.

Most of the tricks on this website are there to show you how to repeat yourself.

African joke which I picked up (as you do) in Sierra Leone while teaching there: “Repeat yourself again for the second time once more.”

I think you had to be there really...

Most people don't bother with marriage any more, especially not in church. But for those who do, here is the part where the actual marriage is about to take place:

Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together in the sight of God, and in the face of this congregation, to join together this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony...

Three repeats in one sentence!

Too much? That is exactly what the word pleonasm means – too much of a good thing.

We do it all the time without thinking or using our heads.

(absolutely) essential
(absolutely) necessary
(actual) facts
advance (forward)
(advance) planning
(advance) preview
(advance) reservations
(advance) warning
add (an additional)
add (up)
(added) bonus
(affirmative) yes
(aid and) abet
(all-time) record

More pleonasm to add to your list? Click with your mouse just here on these words.

And the pleonasm can be quite sinister and forbidding too.

Here is your free gift...
They reached a safe haven...
Congratulations! You have won a free prize...

Or pleonasms can actually be quite nice and pleasant too:

Free, gratis and for nothing.
You do not have to pay a penny.
I saw it with my own two eyes.

Advertising something?

We are looking for a loving home for some adorable, lovable and cuddly kittens...(you then go on to explain that your cat has just had them and that you want them to be happy.)
Our cars are roomy, comfortable and spacious inside...(But outside, they are compact and they park really easily in tight spaces).
Tasty, rich and delicious! Come in and see for yourself!

A level students only:

NB Examiners are paid by the page: NEVER use pleonasms in exams. You are wasting the examiner's time.