Why are writers so drawn to repetition? Is it the worry that one word won’t get the meaning across? (Maybe that’s why “tense and nervous” is such a popular expression!) Granted, repetition can be beautifully emphatic and reassuring, but these signs go a little too far.
Here’s one I spotted on a restroom door:
I had intended to close door open before reading this sign, but I was persuaded to close door shut instead.
This notice frequently pops up when I’m scrolling through articles classified as “breaking news”:
New updates are so much better than old updates, don’t you think?
Now for a hotel ad:
What’s the difference between a short 5 minute walk and a long 5 minute walk? I’d like Einstein to weigh in on the relativity aspect, but he’s not available. Any physicist reading this post is welcome to offer an explanation.
This is the finish end of my post. Bye-bye.
You made me laugh out loud!!! Awesome!!! Thanks for making me laugh! Needed that today. All the best. Steve
Thanks, Steve. I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
So happy to see a post from you today. I’ve been enjoying the English Grammar for Dummies. I’m impressed with your wit and charm. When I am using the workbook, I find myself genuinely wishing you the best!
With warmth,
Thanks for your kind words! Made my day!
I’m still thinking about this post. Ever since you pointed it out, I’ve been seeing “tense and nervous”-esque repetition everywhere in contemporary fiction. It does feel weak. I’m guilty of this habit myself; I think that repetition in a sentence will blend two similar words together, and find a sort of ‘middle’ meaning between them. Does that make sense? I’m curious why it doesn’t work that way, maybe because you are wasting a word that could’ve been used to inform another part of your paragraph.
I like your remark about a “middle meaning.” I never thought of that! My view is that repetition comes from the fear that the statement isn’t clear. And we all have that fear. It can also be emphatic in intention (I say “tiny little” frequently.)
Adding to the kind words of the commentator, EGD is clearly a must-have; certainly all of your books are indispensable.
We’re glad you’re well!
Thanks so much! I hope all is well with you.