Redundantsounding

Redundant-sounding refers to phrases or words that repeat information unnecessarily, often leading to a less efficient or less clear communication. This can occur in spoken language, writing, or even in technical documentation. The repetition can be obvious, such as saying "ATM machine," where "ATM" already stands for "Automated Teller Machine," making "machine" redundant. Other examples include "free gift" or "past history."

The effect of redundant-sounding language can vary. In casual conversation, it might be seen as a minor linguistic quirk or a sign of an over-enthusiastic speaker. However, in formal contexts like legal documents, academic papers, or technical manuals, it can be perceived as a sign of carelessness, lack of precision, or even a lack of understanding of the subject matter. It can also make the text harder to read and process, as the reader has to sift through repeated information.

Avoiding redundant-sounding language often involves careful editing and proofreading. It requires an awareness of common redundancies and a commitment to concise and precise expression. Sometimes, these phrases arise from a desire to emphasize a point, but often, the emphasis is lost due to the unnecessary repetition. The goal is to convey information clearly and efficiently, and redundant phrasing works against this objective. While some redundancies might be idiomatic or have evolved over time, conscious effort can be made to identify and eliminate them for clearer communication.