Tautologise is spelled taw-tol-uh-jize, with the stress on the third syllable. The word comes from tautology, which means using multiple words to say the same thing. Tautologise, therefore, means to express the same idea or meaning twice, using different words. It is often used in linguistics and logic to describe a redundant or unnecessary expression. While the word may seem complicated to spell, breaking it down into its syllables and understanding its origin can help make it easier to remember.
Tautologise is a verb that refers to the act of expressing the same idea or meaning multiple times using different words, resulting in redundancy or circular reasoning. It involves repeating information or making unnecessary repetitions, often unintentionally, which can lead to a lack of clarity and insight in one's communication.
In linguistic terms, tautologising is considered a logical fallacy because it does not add any new information or contribute to the understanding of a statement or argument. Instead, it simply reiterates what has already been stated, making the expression redundant. Tautologies can arise from imprecise or imbalanced language usage, which can hinder effective communication and convey a sense of verbosity or prolixity.
The act of tautologising can occur in various contexts, including everyday conversations, formal writing, and academic discourse. It is generally perceived as a flaw or weakness in one's expression and is discouraged in order to maintain clarity and conciseness of language. Recognizing and avoiding tautologies can contribute to stronger and more effective communication, enabling information to be conveyed in a precise and meaningful way, without unnecessary repetition or circular reasoning.
Overall, tautologising involves repeating the same idea or meaning redundantly using different words, and it is seen as a linguistic flaw that obscures understanding and hinders effective communication.
To repeat the same idea in different words.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tautologise" is derived from the Greek word "tautologia", which consists of "tauto" meaning "the same" and "logos" meaning "word" or "speech". Tautologia, in turn, comes from the verb "tautologeo", meaning "to use many words to express the same thing". Therefore, "tautologise" means to express the same idea or concept multiple times using different words or phrases.