tautology
A statement that repeats the same idea in different words
Examples
In a meeting
“Saying we need to 'prioritize our top priorities' is a tautology that adds no value.”
Over coffee
“The phrase 'free gift' is technically a tautology since gifts are always free.”
Why this word
redundancy
Redundancy is unnecessary repetition; tautology specifically repeats the same idea in different words as if proving something
repetition
Repetition is any restatement; tautology is saying the same thing in a circular, logically empty way
circularity
Circularity describes circular reasoning broadly; tautology specifically names the logical fault of self-referential definition
Usage tip
Use to identify redundant or circular reasoning. Helps eliminate wordiness and clarify thinking.
Etymology
Greek 'tauto' (same) + 'logos' (word)
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Related words
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
misnomer
A wrong or inaccurate name or designation for something
syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes from observation and experience
paradox
A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true
premise
An underlying assumption on which reasoning is based