redundancy
Unnecessary repetition or duplication
Examples
In a meeting
“There's a lot of redundancy between these two reports.”
Over coffee
“Saying 'ATM machine' is redundancy since ATM means automated teller machine.”
Why this word
repetition
redundancy implies unnecessary duplication that adds no value, while repetition can be intentional and useful
excess
redundancy specifically refers to superfluous duplication, while excess is broader and refers to any surplus
duplication
redundancy emphasizes the unnecessary or wasteful aspect, while duplication is neutral about whether copying is needed
Usage tip
Use to identify unnecessary duplication in communication or systems
Etymology
Latin 'redundare' (to overflow) from 're-' (back) + 'undare' (to surge) from 'unda' (wave)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.