What Are Redundant Words?
Redundant words are unnecessary or repetitive words used in a sentence that do not add any new meaning or value. They often make writing or speech wordy, unclear, or repetitive. In grammar, redundancy means using two or more words that say the same thing, either directly or indirectly.
For example:
“Advance planning is necessary.”
“Planning is necessary.”
(Because “planning” already implies advance thought)
Redundancy can occur at the word, phrase, or sentence level, and eliminating it helps make writing clearer, more concise, and professional.
Why Should We Avoid Redundant Words?
Using redundant words may:
Make sentences longer than necessary
Confuse or bore the reader
Reduce the effectiveness of communication
Sound unprofessional or careless
Distract from the main point
Especially in academic writing, emails, essays, or professional communication, clarity and precision are key—and redundancy works against that.
Common Examples of Redundant Phrases
Here are some commonly used redundant phrases with better alternatives:
| Redundant Phrase | Better Alternative |
|---|---|
| Free gift | Gift |
| Basic fundamentals | Fundamentals |
| Repeat again | Repeat |
| End result | Result |
| Return back | Return |
| True fact | Fact |
| Close proximity | Proximity |
| ATM machine | ATM |
| Past history | History |
| Final conclusion | Conclusion |
Notice how the second word often repeats the meaning of the first. By removing the unnecessary word, the sentence becomes more efficient.
Types of Redundancy
Word-level redundancy:
Using two words where one would suffice.
Example: “absolutely essential” → just “essential”Phrase-level redundancy:
Repeating ideas in different phrases.
Example: “In my personal opinion, I think…”
→ “I think…” or “In my opinion…”Redundancy in modifiers:
Using unnecessary adjectives or adverbs.
Example: “Completely finished” → “Finished”Redundant pairing of synonyms:
Using two words that mean the same thing.
Example: “each and every” → “each” or “every”
How to Identify and Correct Redundancy
Here are steps to avoid redundancy:
Read your sentence aloud to spot repetition.
Remove words that don’t add value or new meaning.
Ask yourself: Does this word say something new?
Replace redundant phrases with simpler, clearer terms.
Example:
“He made a brief summary of the report.”
“He summarized the report.”
Tips for Learners
Keep your writing simple and direct.
Avoid double adjectives or duplicate ideas.
Use editing tools or ask others to review your writing.
Practice rewriting redundant sentences to build clarity.
Redundant words clutter your speech and writing. Learning to spot and remove them improves your English fluency and clarity. Whether you’re writing essays, emails, or speaking publicly, avoiding redundancy makes your language more professional, effective, and impactful.