15 Questions
Why is redundancy in writing considered ineffective?
It wastes the reader's time and attention.
Which of the following phrases is an example of redundancy according to the text?
'Last and final'
What is the main issue with phrases like 'free gift'?
They contain redundant information.
Why might redundancy sneak into writing, according to the text?
As a result of not paying attention.
What can happen if you fall into the redundancy trap in your writing?
Your writing will be less effective.
How does redundancy impact the quality of writing?
It weakens the impact and effectiveness of writing.
What lesson will you learn in this text regarding writing?
'Why you should avoid redundancy.'
What is the main reason people use redundant phrases in their formal writing, according to the text?
To sound more emphatic and important
Why might redundant expressions seem like a good way to add weight or power to sentences?
To emphasize a point strongly
How can writers become more aware of their redundant phrases, according to the text?
By having someone else read their writing and point out redundancies
In formal writing, what is considered more impressive than using redundant phrases?
Clarity and precision
What strategy does the text recommend when writers are still under a word count but have already expressed all their ideas?
Address questions or objections from others in the remaining words
What is one way to emphasize certain parts of your writing without using redundant phrases?
Using sentence or paragraph length effectively
Why does the text advise writers to avoid piling up unnecessary words in formal writing?
To maintain clarity and precision in the writing
What is one recommended approach to spot your own verbal tics, as suggested by the text?
Keep a list of redundant phrases you use near you.
Study Notes
Redundancy in Writing
- Using redundant phrases in formal writing may make the writer sound less important and less clear.
- Redundant expressions can sneak into writing due to habits from everyday language, trying to sound official, or trying to fill a word count.
Causes of Redundancy
- Writing without paying attention to language usage.
- Using redundant phrases due to habits from everyday language, such as "last and final" or "at the present moment in time".
- Trying to sound official or important, but actually making the writing less effective.
Avoiding Redundancy
- Enlist help from a friend or teacher to identify redundant phrases in your writing.
- Keep a list of common redundant phrases near your computer and do a search for them when revising your writing.
- Focus on clarity and precision in formal writing, as they are more impressive than redundant phrases.
- Use metaphors, vivid verbs, and sentence or paragraph length to add emphasis instead of redundant phrases.
- Cut out unnecessary words and focus on conveying your point clearly.
Examples of Redundancy
- Using "added bonuses" or "free gifts" when "bonuses" or "gifts" would suffice.
- Specifying "foreign immigrant", "unknown stranger", or "9 A.M. in the morning" when the words "immigrant", "stranger", or "9 A.M." already imply those meanings.
Effective Writing
- Prioritize clarity and precision over redundant phrases.
- Use concise language to make your point, and then stop.
- Show, don't tell, and use metaphors or vivid verbs to add emphasis.
- Focus on writing more content, not more fluff.
Test your knowledge on identifying and correcting redundancy in sentences. Explore instances where unnecessary repetition affects the clarity and effectiveness of communication.
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