Tautology - GCSE English Language Definition

Tautology is a language feature and happens when the same idea is repeated using different words, often unnecessarily. For example, saying “free gift” is a tautology because a gift is already free.

Writers may use tautology by accident, but sometimes they use it on purpose to emphasise a point or create a certain effect. In speech or persuasive writing, it can add force or clarity, even if it sounds repetitive.

Example of tautology in a GCSE text

In persuasive speeches, which students often write or analyse in GCSE English Language, tautology might appear for emphasis. For example: “This is a true fact.” The repetition of meaning in “true” and “fact” is used to stress the honesty or certainty of the statement, even though only one word is needed.