TAUTOLOGICAL Meaning and
Definition
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Tautological is an adjective that describes something as repetitious or redundant, as it involves a statement or expression that is unnecessary or superfluous due to its redundancy and inability to add any new meaning or information. It refers to a proposition or phrase that restates the same idea in different words, resulting in circular reasoning or a self-referential argument.
In the realm of logic and philosophy, tautological statements are often considered uninformative, as they do not contribute any new knowledge or insight. These statements tend to be true by definition and lack a falsifiable aspect. Tautologies can arise through the use of synonyms, where one term is simply replaced by another, or through the use of logical operators, such as "and" or "or," which result in the repetition of the same information.
Linguistically, a tautological expression can involve unnecessary repetition of words or phrases that essentially convey the same meaning. This may occur unknowingly in casual conversation or be used intentionally for emphasis or rhetorical effect. Tautology can also occur when a statement asserts both the truthfulness of a claim and its negation simultaneously, rendering the statement logically invalid.
In conclusion, the term tautological describes a statement or expression that is needlessly repetitive, redundant, or circular, rendering it uninformative and lacking in additional meaning. It is a concept that is encountered in various fields, including logic, philosophy, and linguistics.
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Having the same meaning; repeating the same ideas in different words.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TAUTOLOGICAL
Etymology of TAUTOLOGICAL
The word "tautological" derives from the Greek word "tautologia", which comes from "tauto" meaning "the same" or "identical", and "logos" meaning "word" or "speech". The term was first introduced in the 17th century and is used to describe a statement or expression that is redundant or repetitious, essentially meaning the same thing twice in different words.
Similar spelling words for TAUTOLOGICAL
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