Home / Tautology

Tautology

An in-depth guide to tautology, with examples, distinctions, and practical communication advice.

Tautology receives a topic-specific treatment on this page.

Definition

Tautology restates the same idea, often in different words.

Example

A free gift can be tautological because a gift is already free.

Logical meaning

In logic, tautology separately means a statement true by its form.

Difference

Battology stresses tiresome repetition; tautology stresses redundant meaning.

Fix

Remove the weaker or less precise expression.

Frequently asked questions

What does battologize mean?

To repeat words, phrases, or ideas excessively and tiresomely.

Is all repetition bad?

No. Deliberate repetition can create emphasis, rhythm, structure, or memory.

What is battology?

The noun for needless or wearisome repetition.

How do I fix repetitive writing?

Keep the strongest version and remove restatements that add nothing new.

Is battologize a real word?

Yes. It is an established but uncommon English verb.