REDUNDANCY

Redundancy in writing and speech is considered an error.

It is the unnecessary repetition of an idea, which contributes nothing new to the meaning the writer

wishes to convey.

Examples: The driver reversed back the car and consequently caused an accident.
 The words “reversed” and “back” convey the same idea.

In my opinion, I believe that the earth is flat.

 The phrases “in my opinion” and “I believe” convey the same idea.

If all of us cooperate together, we will succeed.

 Cooperate means to work together, so the word together in the sentence is
redundant.

Practice Exercise

Write each sentence then write the correct version below the original sentence. Avoid redundant
expressions.

1. In the end, we eventually agreed to refer the matter to the legal authority.
2. Without warning, unexpectedly it began to rain.
3. We must cooperate together in order to make the venture a success.
4. Your contribution to the sale will be refunded back to you, if the sale is cancelled.
5. He was killed in a fatal accident.
6. They all travelled slowly and in a leisurely way.
7. He has a unique style of writing, quite unlike any other.
8. They both worked together in collaboration in order to complete the project.
9. The boy’s complexion is brown in colour.
10. The scientist is a genius of great talent who makes a valuable contribution to scientific
progress.
11. The spectators at the cricket match were few in number.
12. The girl wears clothes that are too large in size.
13. The basic fundamentals of any subject must be thoroughly understood by students.
14. The roof of the house was triangular in shape.
15. When the clerk referred back to her notes she found the information required by the manager.