The spelling of the word "again" confuses many people, as it contains the gh letter combination, which is not pronounced. The correct pronunciation of the word is /əˈɡɛn/ (uh-gen), with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word means "once more" or "in addition," and is often used to request repetition. When used twice, as in "again again," it emphasizes the need for repetition to occur once more. So, don't let the spelling throw you off - with practice, the correct pronunciation of "again" will become second nature.
"Again again" is an idiomatic expression that is not typically found in standard dictionaries as a stand-alone entry. However, it is composed of the word "again" repeated twice, which can be defined individually as an adverb signaling repetition or a return to a previous state or action. "Again" conveys the idea of doing something another time, once more, or in a similar manner. It often implies a cycle, renewal, or a recurring event.
When "again" is repeated in the phrase "again again," it intensifies the meaning of repetition or returning to an action, emphasizing the cyclic nature or frequency of an activity. It can denote a persistent pattern or a continuous occurrence. The repetition of "again" further underlines the notion of doing something repeatedly, conveying a sense of insistence or emphasis.
Although "again again" may not have a literal definition, it is commonly used in informal or colloquial language to emphasize the frequency, intensity, or persistence with which an action is being repeated. The phrase can be found in various contexts, such as when someone is addressing a repeated action that occurs frequently or highlighting a cyclic occurrence that seems incessant.
The word "again" comes from Middle English "agayn", which in turn derives from Old English "onǣġen" or "onġēan". The Old English term is a combination of the prefix "on-" (meaning "in", or "into") and "ġēan" or "ǣġen" (meaning "opposite" or "towards"). As for the repetition of the word "again" to form "again again", it is primarily used for emphasis or intensification. However, it is not considered a standard or formal term and is mainly used in colloquial or informal speech.