effect of repetition essay

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Literary Techniques: Repetition

In this post, we explain what repetition is, how to analyse it, and how to discuss it in your essays.

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Vce english units 3 & 4.

Welcome to our glossary of Literary Techniques REPETITION  post. This post explores repetition in detail, one of the many techniques from our Literary Techniques Toolkit . Some common student questions about repetition are:

What is repetition?

• How do we analyse repetition?
• How do I discuss repetition in my response?

Here, we will define repetition, discuss the purpose of using repetition in texts, and take you through a step-by-step process – using examples – for writing about them in your responses.

Table of Contents

How does repetition work.

• How to analyse repetition, step-by-step
• Repetition examples

Want to know the key to sophisticated analysis?

Literary techniques: Repetition

Although repetition is important, it is a very easy technique to identify.

This means that you should always further analyse and think critically about the deeper meanings it can represent. Never state that repetition emphasises the subject it is talking about. That is not a strong enough analysis!

Repetition is when a word, phrase or statement is repeated several times to emphasise and develop a certain idea.

For example, “ That is a very, very, very big balloon!” 

There are many different types of repetition. For example:

• Alliteration : This is the repetition of a sound at the beginning of more than two stressed syllables. For example, “ she sold seashells… “
• Anaphora : When the beginning of a sentence, or phrase is repeated. For example, “w e brought the alcohol. We brought the diseases. “
• Anadiplosis : The repetition of the final word of a phrase, clause, or sentence at the beginning of the next. For example, “ the poor have been wronged, and the wronged will seek vengeance. “
• Chiasmus : When the start of a clause is repeated at the end in an inverted order. For example, “ When the going gets tough the tough get going. “
• Epanalepsis : Repeating the end of a phrase, line, or clause with the word (or words) which occurred at the beginning of the same phrase, line, or clause. For example, “ The king is dead, long live the the king. “
• Epistrophe : When you end a series of clauses, lines, or phrases with the same word or phrase. This is the opposite of anaphora. For example, “ We are born alone, we live alone, and we die alone. “

Make sure you specify the particular type of repetition, if any, that is being used.

When a word, phrase or statement is repeated several times, we often find it hammered into our brains.

Knowing this, composers are able to emphasise and then explore further certain subjects by repeating specific words or phrases that relate to it. However, that is not all.

Repetition can create a rhythm or break it. This will ultimately affect the mood or atmosphere of the text. It is up to you to think critically about these changes and figure out its significance.

Most of the time, the subject highlighted holds a deeper meaning, like  symbolism.  The thing repeated often represents another idea or concept that can further support the text’s themes and messages. So, when we identify the subject and its symbolic meaning, we can link the two together to figure out the purpose of the repetition.

How do I analyse repetition?

Repetition is very easy to identify, but may be more difficult to analyse. Here are some methodical steps that will help you analyse and discuss it.

• Read the passage and identify repeated words or phrases
• Does it put emphasis on a subject or idea? Why?
• Does it change the mood? If so, what?
• Does it change the rhythm? How do audiences react/feel about this?
• Put the findings from above together. What does it ultimately represent?
• Think about your perspective on a subject, theme or idea. Has it changed?
• Discuss insights in a T.E.E.L structure.

Now that we have an overview of how to analyse repetition, let’s do it together using examples.

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It is very easy to notice repetition. It can include words, phrases, clauses or statements.

Step 1: identify any repeated words or phrases.

Let’s have a look at an extract from the Year 12 Common Module text:  The Merchant of Venice, Act 3, Scene 1

I am a Jew. Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew Hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, Passions; fed with the same food, hurt with the Same weapons, subject to the same diseases, Healed by the same means, warmed and Cooled by the same winter and summer as a Christian is? If you prick us do we not bleed? If You tickle us do we not laugh? If you poison us Do we not die? And if you wrong us shall we not Revenge? If we are like you in the rest, we will Resemble you in that. If a Jew wrong a Christian, What is his humility? Revenge. If a Christian Wrong a Jew, what should his sufferance be by Christian example? Why, revenge. The villainy You teach me I will execute, and it shall go hard But I will better the instruction.

Here, we see that Shylock’s monologue is about his mistreatment by the Venetians for being a Jew. He tells them that he is also a human with “hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections” and that he can feel pain and joy like they do.

However, it takes a dark turn when he begins to talk about revenge.

He questions the hypocrisy of the Christians; how the Jews are punished for hurting Christians but not the other way around. Shylock also confronts them about their undeserving noble attitudes.

Then, he vows to hurt them like they have hurt him.

So now that you have a better understanding of the plot, what repeated words or phrases do you notice in this extract?

“ Jew “, “the s ame “, “ If you… “, “ Christian ”

Step 2: Figure out the effect of the repetition

Now, we need to think about how the repeated words or phrases impact the audience by highlighting important aspects of the text.

These are the repeated words and phrases:

“I am a Jew . Hath not a Jew eyes. Hath not a Jew  hands organs, dimensions, sense, affections”

“Hurt with the same weapons… Healed by the same means… Cooled by the same winter and summer”

“ If you tickle us, do we not laugh? If you poison us, do we not die? And if you wrong us shall we not revenge?”

“ If a Jew wrong a Christian , what is his humility? If a Christian wrong a Jew, what should his sufference be by Christian example?

Let’s ask ourselves a few questions to figure out the effect of repetition.

1. Does it put emphasis on a subject or idea? Why?

Looking at the repetition of words and phrases in these lines, we can see a common theme running through this extract… PREJUDICE.

This extract talks about how both Christians and Jews are human and should be treated in the same way.

Shakespeare’s repetition of ‘ Jews ‘ and ‘ Christians ‘ highlights the two religions. The word ‘ same ‘ emphasises the commonality between the religions and the anaphora of ‘if you ‘ challenges the existing prejudice against the Jews.

2. Does it change the mood? If so, what?

What do you feel when you read this extract? Does repetition help build the atmosphere?

We can see that this monologue is quite dark and disturbing. And the repetition of words and phrases definitely add to this atmosphere.

Shakespeare chose these specific specific words and phrases like, “ Same weapons… same means… same winter and summer ” to create an ominous mood. We become anxious and almost terrified of Shylock’s promise of revenge.

3. Does it change the rhythm? How do audiences react/feel about this?

The repetition here creates a rhythmic beat that slowly builds up.

Because of this, the text becomes chant-like, and we find ourselves unable to stop reading the monologue. This also adds to the ominous and dark atmosphere of the monologue.

4. Put the findings from above together. What does it ultimately represent?

From this, we can see that Shakespeare has used repetition in Shylock’s monologue to confront his audience with the existing prejudice in society and its consequences – the persecuted seeks revenge.

So, the repetition here is emphasises the cycle of hatred and anger that results from the existing societal prejudice.

We see this through the ominous atmosphere created through the repetition of “ Christians “, “ Jews ” and “ Same weapons… same means… same winter and summer ” that builds an enchanting rhythm.

NOTE: it is not enough to just say that repetition emphasises Christians or Jews or the similarities between them.

Step 3: What is the significance of the text?

Now, we need to think about Shakespeare’s MESSAGE. This links to wider society and the human experience.

The theme explored in Shylock’s monologue is prejudice .

So, ask yourself, has Shakespeare has managed to confirm or change your perspective about this issue? And why?

We can see that Shakespeare is trying to warn his audiences of the negative consequences of prejudice within society. He horrifies us with the hatred and extreme desire for revenge that results from religious prejudices. Shakespeare tries to motivate us to try to remove prejudice society so that it can be more harmonious and equitable.

Step 4: Discuss insights in a T.E.E.L paragraph

Now, we have all the necessary ingredients to put together a  T.E.E.L paragraph.

T.E.E.L stands for:

• Technique : The technique used in the example
• Example : The example
• Effect : Your explanation of the effect of this technique and how it develops meaning
• Link : An explanation of how this example supports your argument.

You can find a more detailed explanation of using  T.E.E.L in our post on paragraph structure  (this post is part of our series on Essay Writing and shows you the methods Matrix English Students learn to write Band 6 essays in the Matrix Holiday and Term courses). Let’s use this  T.E.E.L to write about this example of repetition.

• The  technique being used is repetition.
• The example of “ Jew “,  “ Christian “, “ Same weapons… same means… same winter and summer “,   ‘If you tickle us, do we not laugh? If you poison us, do we not die? And if you wrong us shall we not revenge?’
• The effect of this technique is that Shakespeare is representing the cycle of hatred and revenge that exists because of the religious prejudices that exist in society through the trance-like rhythm created by the repetition of words and phrases.
• The  link to our argument is that Shakespeare confronts his audience with the detriment of social prejudices as they harbour anger and hostility, thus, highlighting the need for the acceptance of differences within a society.

Let’s put this in a complete analysis of repetition.

Repetition example

As repetition is very easy to identify in texts, you need to bring your analysis to the next level. Now that we know how to analyse repetition step-by-step, let’s take another look at an example to make sure that you fully understand what repetition is and how to use it in your writing.

Let’s take a look at how to analyse repetition in a pair of texts for Year 12 Module A.

Repetition example 1: Sylvia Plath’s ‘Fever 103’

Here, Plath is on a journey to purify herself from her trauma and sins.

As you can see, she uses repetition quite frequently. However, we will only focus on one example.

“ The tongues of hell / are dull, dull as the triple / tongues of dull, fat Cerberus”

The repetition of ‘ dull ‘ ‘ tongue ‘  of fat Cerberus twists the myth of the frightening three-headed Hell-hound. He is known to be terrifyingly powerful, being the guard at the entrance to hell; preventing anyone from leaving.

However, by emphasising the dullness of his tongues, Plath decreases his power in an attempt to change our perception on the level of purity to enter hell.

By decreasing the level of purity to enter hell, she is then able to feel ‘purified’ and subsequently liberate herself from her domestic suppression, even with her numerous sins.

Now that we have analysed the evidence, let’s put it into a paragraph:

Now that you have a solid understanding of repetition and how to use it, you want to ensure you start practising identifying, analysing and writing about it yourself.

Written by Matrix English Team

© Matrix Education and www.matrix.edu.au, 2023. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Matrix Education and www.matrix.edu.au with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

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What is repetition? At its simplest, repetition is a word or phrase used multiple times in a text, for the purpose of emphasizing an emotion or idea. It might seem counterintuitive to repeat, repeat, repeat, but when wielded correctly, the repetition of words and phrases has powerful effects in literature.

You’re most likely to find examples of repetition in poetry, but both poetry and prose utilize the same devices, like epizeuxis, anadiplosis, and chiasmus. We’ll dive into those strange Greek words in a minute, but before dissecting the types of repetition, let’s properly define repetition in literature. What is repetition?

Repetition Definition: Contents

Repetition Definition

• Repetition in Poetry

11 Types of Repetition in Literature

• Anadiplosis
• Antanaclasis
• Antimetabole
• Antistrophe
• Epanalepsis

What is the Effect of Repetition?

How not to use repetition in your writing.

When a writer utilizes repetition, they’re putting multiple iterations of a word or phrase in close proximity to each other. In other words, a word or phrase is repeated to provide clarity and emphasis, highlighting deeper meanings in the text.

Repetition definition: an instance where a word or phrase is repeated to provide clarity and emphasis, highlighting deeper meanings in the text.

Now, repetition in literature can be both subtle and obvious, and writers can get very creative about what those repeating words signify. For example, take this excerpt from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “ The Rime of the Ancient Mariner ”:

In 11 words, “alone” is repeated 4 times, while “all” and “wide” are repeated twice each. Each word contributes its own importance to the poem. “All” emphasizes the intensity of the speaker’s aloneness, and while the word “alone” highlights the speaker’s solitude, “wide” highlights the vast amount of space between the speaker and anything else. The repetition here evokes the image of an insignificant dot floating in an endless nothingness—a loneliness without end.

What is Repetition in Poetry?

It’s easy to find examples of repetition in poetry and in prose, but it’s much easier to execute repetition in poetry. Why do poets use repetition? Poetry has greater freedom in syntax and structure, so poets have more tools at their disposal to repeat themselves stylishly and effectively.

Indeed, because of poetry’s brevity and concision, repetition is almost necessary to write a good poem . You’ll find in many great poems that a certain idea or image is repeated, with some modification, throughout the work.

Certain poetry forms also require repetition, typically in the form of a refrain. A refrain is a phrase or line that gets repeated in an intentional, specific way, with little modification. The villanelle , for example, has two refrains woven throughout the poem. Other forms, like the duplex or the sestina , don’t have refrains, but they do require words or lines to be repeated in a highly structured format.

Repetition in poetry: A refrain is a phrase or line that gets repeated in an intentional, specific way, with little modification.

Why is repetition in poetry so important? A great poem will look at a single idea from many different angles. Through that idea’s juxtaposition with different thoughts and images, the idea becomes multifaceted, in a way that a poem’s repetition and concision make possible. Additionally, the poem is often a site of obsession, and repetition in poetry enables the poet to explore that obsession in an intentional, artful way.

Now, let’s take a look at the types of repetition in literature—both prose and poetry—before looking at more repetition examples in each genre.

Repetition is as old as literature, though these devices were especially prominent in both Ancient Greece and Rome. These devices exist partially because of their emphatic value, and partially because literature was often retold orally, so repetition helped storytellers remember “what comes next” as they recited their work.

As such, the following repetition devices all have Greek names. For the modern English speaker, this makes remembering each device a bit confusing—how am I supposed to know my antistrophe from my antanaclasis?

As such, we’ve defined each device next to the word itself, making these types of repetition easier to navigate. In addition to using these devices in your writing, you can also impress your friends by telling them what they just said is an antimetabole.

We’ve provided some repetition examples in literature alongside each device below. Here are 11 types of repetition in poetry and prose.

1. Anadiplosis—Repetition in Successive Clauses

Anadiplosis is when a word or phrase is repeated in successive clauses. Usually, the phrase shows up at the end of one clause and the beginning of the next.

You’ll find anadiplosis often in classic literature, and this device is especially prevalent in the Bible. Take this excerpt from the Book of Genesis (1:1-2):

In this passage, “the earth” ends the first sentence and starts the second. This puts the earth at the center of the text, emphasizing its importance and outsized presence in Genesis.

Anadiplosis can also be used to offer a sense of placement. Take this example of repetition, from the poem “ The Isles of Greece ” by Lord Byron:

In this excerpt, the reader can view the arrangement of the landscape. We see Marathon literally situated between the mountains and the sea, because it’s situated that same way in the text, which also emphasizes Marathon’s importance to the poem itself.

2. Anaphora—Repetition at the Beginning of Lines or Clauses

For the most part, anaphora is an example of repetition in poetry. This device involves the repeated use of a word or phrase at the beginning of each line in a poem, or each sentence in prose.

Let’s look at repetition examples for each. In poetry, anaphora is present in the piece “ The Delight Song of Tsoai-talee ” by N. Scott Momaday. Read this poem at our article Literary Devices in Poetry .

In prose, consider this sentence from the novel Farewell, My Lovely by Raymond Chandler:

The repeating phrase “I needed” highlights the narrator’s desperation, especially since each need is a luxury only afforded to the wealthy and comfortable. The following sentence, which describes the narrator’s belongings, offers insight into the narrator’s psyche and behavior—we know his needs and what he has to obtain those needs.

3. Antanaclasis—Successive Repetition of a Word, In Which Each Use Has a Different Meaning

One word can have many different meanings, especially in the English language. Did you know that the word “set” has 430 different usages described in the Oxford English Dictionary?

Antanaclasis harnesses this facet of language so that each repetition of words has a different meaning.

Take this example of repetition, from Robert Frost’s poem “ Stopping by Woods on Snowy Evening .”

The repetition of the last line, and particularly the phrase “I sleep,” clues the reader towards two different meanings. The first “I sleep” is clearly referring to rest, while the second “I sleep” probably refers to the speaker’s death. This double meaning of “sleep” suggests the speaker has much more work to do before he can comfortably rest, both at night and at the end of his life.

4. Antimetabole—Phrases or Sentences Repeated in Reverse Grammatical Order

Antimetabole is when phrases or sentences are repeated in reverse order, with the intent of juxtaposing different meanings. In both clauses, the grammatical structure is exactly the same. This device is closely related to chiasmus, but with a slight difference that we explain later below.

This device is much easier to demonstrate than to define. See the below repetition examples, each of which uses inverted word order to emphasize a certain point:

This quote, spoken by Festes in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night , repeats “wit” and “fool” in inverse order. The effect is that Festes underlines the importance of wit, and that foolishness and wit are not mutually exclusive: a “fool” or clown can be witty, which is far better than actually being a foolish person.

Here’s another example of antimetabole, from Zora Neale Hurston’s novel Their Eyes Were Watching God :

Hurston’s novel frequently dwells on the themes of gender and society, and this quote sums up the novel’s attitude nicely. At a time when women were viewed as subservient to their husbands, Hurston is saying that women are fully in control of their fate, feelings, and thoughts, defying the typical gender roles of that era. The antimetabole of “forget” and “remember” reinforces that sense of control.

5. Antistrophe—Successive Repetition at the Ends of Lines or Clauses

Antistrophe—also known as epistrophe or epiphora—is the successive repetition of a word or phrase at the end of lines or clauses. Like anaphora, the effect of antistrophe is the emphasis of a recurring idea.

You’ll find an example of antistrophe in the short poem “We Real Cool” by Gwendolyn Brooks:

The word “We” starts each sentence, but ends each line—except the last line. This repetition emphasizes two things. First, it shows the reader the speaker’s lack of identity: he can only identify as a weak “we,” and that “we” centers itself around youthful rebellion.

Second, it highlights the poet’s attitude towards the boys. There is no “we” after the phrase “die soon,” which underscores the poem’s finality and the poet’s belief that the boys will ruin their own lives.

6. Chiasmus—Phrases or Sentences Repeated in Reverse Order

Chiasmus, like antimetabole, is the repetition of a phrase in reverse order. By inverting a phrase, the writer juxtaposes different or opposite meanings.

Unlike antimetabole, a chiasmus does not have to invert a phrase grammatically. The two clauses can have different lengths and structures. As such, antimetabole is often viewed as a stricter form of chiasmus.

Let’s look at an example of each, side-by-side. The following, from Shakespeare’s Macbeth , is an example of both chiasmus and antimetabole, because each inverted clause preserves the same grammatical structure:

Now, this next quote, from Aeschylus, is an example of chiasmus, but not of antimetabole, because each inverted clause has a different grammatical structure:

To summarize: a chiasmus is also an antimetabole, but not every antimetabole is a chiasmus.

7. Epanalepsis—Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning and end of a clause or sentence

Epanalepsis refers to repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning and end of a line, clause, or sentence. This is a feature of some other types of repetition—chiasmus and antimetabole, in particular, will often feature an epanalepsis.

This repetition device is just as useful for poets and storytellers as it is for rhetoricians. Here are a few examples:

“Beloved is mine; she is Beloved.” — Beloved by Toni Morrison

“Possessed by what we now no more possessed.” —” The Gift Outright ” by Robert Frost

“Nothing can be created out of nothing.” —Lucretius

“Music I heard with you was more than music. And bread I broke with you was more than bread.” —“ Bread and Music ” by Conrad Aiken

“Mankind must put an end to war or war will put an end to mankind.” —John F. Kennedy

The most obvious reason for using epanalepsis is emphasis on an important concept or keyword. That said, pay attention to how this repetition device adds a sense of rhythm and musicality to language. Something about the echoing of important words adds movement and tension to the sentence, making it moving and evocative.

8. Epimone—Repetition for the Purpose of Dwelling

Epimone, a device most often used in dialogue , occurs when the speaker repeats themselves for the purpose of dwelling on a point. This repetition doesn’t contribute anything new to the speaker’s argument, but it often shows us how the speaker truly feels.

Here’s an example from Romeo & Juliet :

In addition to several epizeuxis examples (defined below), this quote has several examples of epimone. The repeating “woeful,” “O day,” and “O woeful day” phrases don’t contribute anything new to what the nurse is saying, but it does underscore how terrible the day is for her.

Epimone is best used as an element in dialogue to humanize characters. In real life, people repeat themselves for emphasis, and using epimone reflects this human tendency.

9. Epizeuxis—Words Repeated in Quick Succession

Epizeuxis, also known as diacope, is the repetition of words in quick succession.

There are countless examples of epizeuxis in the poem “ The Bells ” by Edgar Allan Poe. Each stanza ends with some variation of the following:

Here, the immediate repetition of “bells” is an epizeuxis. Try to read this stanza as though each iteration of “bells” was a bell jingling: the stanza becomes vibrant, exciting, and perhaps even overwhelming, as it is both figuratively and literally consumed by the bells.

10. Polyptoton—The Inclusion of Multiple Words with the Same Root

Polyptoton is the use of two or more words that, though different, share the same root. The words “bare & barely” have the same root; so do the word pairs “battle & embattled” and “lunar & lunatic.”

Polyptoton was a common facet of Latin and Greek poetry, since one word has hundreds of forms in each language. However, modern literature has examples of polyptoton, too. Take this excerpt from T. S. Eliot’s poem “The Dry Salvages”:

There are four examples of polyptoton here: “wither & withering”, “pain & painless”, “drift & drifting”, and “prayer, prayable, & Prayer.”

What is the effect of repetition with polyptoton? By using different forms of the same word, the writer can suggest an evolving relationship between those words. The flowers, withered, are still withering; the sea, which drifts, brings drifting wreckage. Polyptoton adds dimension to the meanings of words, providing contrast and emphasis to what those words signify.

11. Symploce—Repetition at Both the Beginnings and Ends of Clauses

Symploce occurs when a writer uses both anaphora and antistrophe at the same time. By using symploce, the writer highlights nuances of meaning and the differences between the two repeating phrases.

Because symploce happens at both the beginning and end of a line or sentence, it most often occurs as repetition in poetry. Here’s an example of a love poem , “Sonnet 62” by Bartholomew Griffin, that has symploce in each line:

“Sonnet 62” uses an anaphora with “most true” and an antistrophe with “love.” Each line slightly alters the relationship between truth and love, presenting a series of juxtapositions and paradoxes that complicates the speaker’s relationship to Fidessa. By writing this sonnet as a perfect symploce, Griffin is able to capture that complexity and his evolving relationship to love itself.

Repetition in literature offers a variety of powerful rhetorical strategies . In the above repetition examples, we’ve seen this device do the following:

• Emphasize key themes and ideas
• Underscore the relationship between ideas
• Emulate sounds and experiences
• Invert ideas for emphasis
• Juxtapose ideas to challenge the reader
• Reveal or enhance the author’s writing style
• Play with multiple meanings and ambiguities
• Situate an important setting in the text, both figuratively and literally
• Suggest a character’s interiority

Repetition in literature can do all of the above, and much more. What makes repetition in poetry and prose so powerful is that it emphasizes other devices and ideas in the text.

Since the main effect of repetition is emphasis, writers should harness the repetition of words to underscore what their work is trying to accomplish. By skillfully repeating words and phrases, writers can clue the reader towards what they’re trying to say in their work, using the tools of rhetoric in artistic and literary ways.

Repetition is a powerful literary device that can highlight important ideas, flesh out those ideas, and make your writing more musical and interesting. When mishandled, it can also lessen the quality of your work.

How is that so? Repetition that isn’t done intentionally and artistically can end up being annoying or redundant. Typically, this happens when the writer is saying the exact same thing over and over. It can also happen when the writer doesn’t trust the reader, so they restate the same idea, trying to hammer in something that the reader already understands.

Much of this comes down to being confident in your work and being objective about your goals with your writing.

Here’s a quote from The Great Gatsby that uses repetition artfully:

He smiled understandingly—much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced—or seemed to face—the whole eternal world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey.

The words “understood,” “understand,” and “understandingly” are repeated just the right number of times. They’re scattered throughout the text in an intentional way, and each time the word is used, it’s used with a slightly different meaning. Each repetition adds to the meaning the paragraph tries to convey, and it does so inside of the voice of Nick Carraway, the narrator. Here, repetition is intentional, thoughtful, and mindful of character.

Here’s an example of repetition gone wrong. I’ve amended the above passage to have needless repetition:

He smiled understandingly—much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare understanding smiles with a quality of eternal understanding reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced—or seemed to face—the whole eternal world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible understanding prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it understood , that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey.

The additional uses of the word “understand” don’t contribute anything unique or essential. Moreover, they dampen the effects of the other words, and you start to get annoyed with the word every time it’s used. Don’t over repeat, and again, trust your audience.

Wield Repetition at Writers.com

Repetition is a powerful literary device , but if you have too many repeating words and phrases, your work can lose its impact. Writers.com can help! Become a part of our community: Take a look at our upcoming courses or join our Facebook group , and receive caring feedback on your work and use of repetition.

Sean Glatch

[…] Repetition Definition: Types of Repetition in Poetry and Prose […]

Fascinating piece.

For an understanding of ancient Greek words and how they are derived, check out Greek Alphabet: Unlock the Secrets by Julia DeVonne—an explanation of the symbolic meaning of Greek letters and how they are combined to form words. (Available on Amazon.com)

Wonderfully explained.

Amazing using this information in my next writing. Thank you

There seems to be a name for everything. Is there a definition for the rhyme in the final line below?

Who did this terrible thing? Who put a thumb in the pie? A voice in the corner Came from one Jack Horner T’was I. T’was I. T’was I

[…] and movement between lines, employ caesura to create pauses and emphasis, and experiment with repetition, parallelism, and other rhetorical devices to enhance the structure and impact of your […]

Such a useful and interesting reference – used in my A Level English Literature class. Thanks for posting.

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Definition of Repetition

Common examples of repetition, examples of repetition in movie lines, famous examples of repetition, differences between repetition of sounds, writing repetition, sense of rhythm, create emphasis, purpose of repetition in literature, use of repetition in sentences, examples of repetition in literature, example 1: macbeth (william shakespeare).

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow , Creeps in this petty pace from day to day, To the last syllable of recorded time; And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death.

 Example 2: A Dog Has Died (Pablo Neruda; translated by Alfred Yankauer)

My dog has died. I buried him in the garden next to a rusted old machine. Some day I’ll join him right there, but now he’s gone with his shaggy coat, his bad manners and his cold nose, and I, the materialist, who never believed in any promised heaven in the sky for any human being, I believe in a heaven I’ll never enter. Yes, I believe in a heaven for all dogdom where my dog waits for my arrival waving his fan-like tail in friendship.

Example 3: The Ballad of the Sad Cafe (Carson McCullers)

But the hearts of small children are delicate organs. A cruel beginning in this world can twist them into curious shapes. The heart of a hurt child can shrink so that forever afterward it is hard and pitted as the seed of a peach. Or again, the heart of such a child may fester and swell until it is a misery to carry within the body, easily chafed and hurt by the most ordinary things.

Synonyms of Repetition

Related posts:, post navigation.

• Literary Terms
• Definition & Examples
• When & How to Use Repetition

I. What is Repetition?

Quite simply, repetition is the repeating of a word or phrase. It is a common rhetorical device used to add emphasis and stress in writing and speech. Repetition is widely used in both poetry and prose; throughout all genres and forms of literature and oral tradition. Aside from helping stress or highlight important thoughts and points, repetition can be a key tool for authors and speakers in developing style, tone, and rhythm.

II. Example of Repetition

Read the short passage below:

The big stairs led up to a big house with a big front door. Breathe, breathe, breathe, I told myself. I only have to stay for one second, be afraid for one second, not scream for one second. I can do it. I can win the bet. I can prove I’m brave.

The passage above uses several different styles of repetition to show the narrator’s anxiety. By repeating what the character thinks and sees, the author makes the situation more interesting.

III. Common Types of Repetition

There are many types of repetition in rhetoric, but below are some of the most common.

a. Epizeuxis

Epizeuxis is the repetition of a word in sequence. For example, “ Why , why , why ?!”

b. Anaphora

Anaphora is the repetition of a word at the beginning of each phrase or clause. For example, “She looked to the left, she looked to the right, she looked straight ahead.”

c. Mesodiplosis

Mesodiplosis is the repetition of a word in the middle of each phrase or clause. For example, “One, but not two; three, but not four; five, but not six.”

d. Epistrophe

Epistrophe is the repetition of a word at the end of each phrase or clause. For example, “Every day I’m happy because you love me , I’m more fulfilled because you love me , I have everything because you love me .”

IV. Importance of Repetition

Repetition is an important literary device because it allows a writer or speaker to place emphasis on things they choose as significant. It tells the reader or audience that the words being used are central enough to be repeated, and lets them know when to pay special attention to the language. Furthermore, repetition has historically been an important technique for oral tradition, as it helped storytellers remember details and lines that may have otherwise been difficult to repeat.

V. Examples in Literature

Celebrated classic children’s author Dr. Seuss frequently uses repetition in his quirky and eccentric stories. Below is a selection from One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish that demonstrates Dr. Seuss’s well-known, one-of-a-kind style:

One fish, Two fish, Red fish, Blue fish, Black fish, Blue fish, Old fish, New fish. This one has a little car. This one has a little star. Say! What a lot of fish there are. Yes. Some are red, and some are blue. Some are old and some are new. Some are sad, and some are glad, And some are very, very bad.

Dr. Seuss uses a combination of repetition and rhyming to craft this catchy story that everyone knows. One of the reasons his books are so unique is that he makes use of several types of repetition, which together create a whimsical, silly sounding style.

In the famous opening to A Tale of Two Cities , Charles Dickens utilizes repetition to add stress and emphasis to the positives and negatives of the time.

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—

Dickens’ famous words “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” remain some of the most celebrated lines in literature to this day. The way he repeats the phrase “it was” makes his words stronger, more memorable, more effective, and more convincing.

VI. Examples of Repetition in Pop Culture

Repetition is a very popular way of adding stress and power when delivering a speech. Throughout history, people have used repetition to make sure that their audiences will remember and repeat their phrases and ideas; for example Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream”:

By repeating “I have a dream” throughout his speech, Martin Lurther King Jr. connects himself to these words and makes them stick in the audience’s minds.

In the classic romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally , Harry uses repetition to strengthen his grand New Year’s Eve speech to Sally:

By repeating the words “I love that…” over and over again, Harry is placing emphasis on the fact that he loves everything about Sally, good and bad. He repeats these words over and over with the hopes that she will realize that what he is saying is real and true, and that she will return his love.

VII. Related Terms

Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds, which creates rhyme. For example, “ the black cat had the rat’s bag;” “how now brown cow?” “do you do voodoo?”

Consonance is the repetition of a consonant sound at the middle or end of a word. For example, “ the cook broke his back;” “the duck struck some luck.”

• Alliteration

Alliteration is the repetition of a consonant sound at the beginning of a word. For example, “Lucy lacked love,” “the sand sizzled under the strong sun;” “the fox fixed the fax.” Alliteration is perhaps the most used form of sound repetition. One of the most popular examples is Mother Goose’s well-known nursery rhyme—

Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers; A peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked; If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers, Where’s the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?

Oftentimes, writers use some combination of the three types of sound repetition. For instance, “Splish splash splish splash” uses assonance, consonance, and alliteration all at once.

List of Terms

• Amplification
• Anachronism
• Anthropomorphism
• Antonomasia
• APA Citation
• Aposiopesis
• Autobiography
• Bildungsroman
• Characterization
• Circumlocution
• Cliffhanger
• Comic Relief
• Connotation
• Deus ex machina
• Deuteragonist
• Doppelganger
• Double Entendre
• Dramatic irony
• Equivocation
• Extended Metaphor
• Figures of Speech
• Flash-forward
• Foreshadowing
• Intertextuality
• Juxtaposition
• Literary Device
• Malapropism
• Onomatopoeia
• Parallelism
• Pathetic Fallacy
• Personification
• Point of View
• Polysyndeton
• Protagonist
• Red Herring
• Rhetorical Device
• Rhetorical Question
• Science Fiction
• Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
• Synesthesia
• Turning Point
• Understatement
• Urban Legend
• Verisimilitude
• Essay Guide
• Cite This Website

What is Repetition? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Repetition definition, literary devices that use repetition, examples of repetition in literature, further resources on repetition, related terms.

As a literary term, repetition (reh-pih-TIH-shun) refers to deliberately repeating sounds, words, and phrases within a piece of literature for the purpose of creating an intended effect. The point may be to rouse the reader, slow a reader down create rhythm , or make a passage easier to remember.

Repetition is a general term that serves as an umbrella for many literary devices. Below are some of the more common repetitious devices; examples may be bolded for emphasis.

• Alliteration : This is the repetition of the sounds at the beginnings of words throughout a sentence , paragraph, or longer passage. “ Pl iny pl ucked the pl ants and then pl ated the pl ums.”
• Anadiplosis : This occurs when a word or a group of words from the end of one clause or sentence is repeated at or toward the beginning of the next clause or sentence for effect. “I fell asleep on a pile of laundry , and a pile of laundry broke my fall in my dream.”
• Anaphora : In anaphora, the writer or speaker repeats a word or group of words at the beginnings of sequential sentences or phrases. “ Everybody saw you take the cupcake. Everybody saw you lick it, and everybody saw you put it back.”
• Antanaclasis: In antanaclasis, a repeated word changes meaning each time it’s used. “A woman was cutting in front of me in line, so I whispered a cutting remark about her rudeness.”
• Antimetabole: In antimetabole, a juxtaposing phrase is repeated and inverted. “He started over to prevent criticism but was criticized for starting over.”
• Assonance : This is the repetition of vowel sounds, which can occur at any position within each word. “I couldn’t t a ke the w a y the light and shadows pl a yed upon her f a ce.”
• Consonance : This is the same as assonance, except with consonant sounds. “Disa st er st ruck when the je st er st ole the re st of the oy st ers.”
• Diacope: Diacope is the repetition of a word or phrase with one to a few words separating the instances. “I heard the train whistle, so I ran for the train and jumped onto the train .”
• Epanalepsis: Epanalepsis is like diacope, except the repeated word or phrase specifically occurs at the beginning and the end of the sentence. “ The best course of action is to hold off on doing anything until we stumble upon the best course of action .”
• Epistrophe: Epistrophe is like anaphora, except the repetition occurs at the end of phrases or sentences. “The station ID says, ‘We don’t just play the same five songs ,’ but this station constantly plays the same five songs , then I get sick of those same five songs , even if I used to like them.”
• Epizeuxis: Epizeuxis is what diacope would be without any intervening words. “Everyone says, ‘Where have the bees gone?’ but when I open a jar of honey outdoors, all I see are bees, bees, bees.”
• Polyptoton: Polyptoton is the repeated use of words with the same root across a sentence or paragraph. “Your comment felt point ed, but point ing fingers seems point less; please just make your point .”
• Polysyndeton: This is the repeated deliberate use of a coordinating conjunction (usually and ) where, typically, commas would be preferable. “The robot cooks and cleans and gardens and drinks and swears and gambles just like Mom used to.”
• Refrain : A refrain is an anchoring repeated element in a poem. It can be a single word or several lines.
• Symploce: Symploce combines anaphora and epistrophe. “ My cat caught a mouse, and I wrote a song about it . My cat scratched me, and I wrote a song about it . My cat ran away, and I wrote a song about it .”

1. Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

In a splendid example of alliteration , Angelou repeats s and w sounds to add texture to her description of feeling uncomfortable at church:

Up the aisle, the moans and s creams merged with the s ickening s mell of w oolen black clothes worn in s ummer w eather and green leaves w ilting over yellow flowers.

2. Joanna Klink, “Some Feel Rain”

Klink repeats the phrase some feel four times in the first five lines of this poem , using anaphora to create rhythm . Then, she uses it only twice more, fairly spread out, in the remainder of the 27-line poem, perhaps to demonstrate how one gradually shakes off the concept of individualism as one enters Nature:

Some feel rain. Some feel the beetle startle

in its ghost-part when the bark

slips. Some feel musk. Asleep against

each other in the whiskey dark, scarcely there.

When it falls apart, some feel the moondark air

3. Jamaica Kincaid, Autobiography of My Mother

Epanalepsis often appears in aphorisms . In this line from a novel about staking out one’s identity in an unjust world, Kincaid delivers a perfectly dense and concise truism:

The inevitable is no less a shock just because it is inevitable .

4. Javier Zamora, “[Immigration Headline]”

This prose poem of powerful social commentary―which appears as a series of poems―uses several types of repetition to sustain a rhythm and express frustration with the way things never change. In the first entry of the series, Zamora repeats the line “yo soy un bicho migrante”―“I am a migrant bug” in English.

5. Carson McCuller, A Member of the Wedding

In this passage, McCullers uses polysyndeton to help the reader remember what it’s like to be a restless 12-year-old girl:

It was four o'clock in the afternoon and the kitchen was square and gray and quiet. Frankie sat at the table with her eyes half closed, and she thought about a wedding.

See how many types of repetition you can identify by listening to Javier Zamora read “[Immigration Headline],” courtesy of the Poetry Foundation .

BookFox offers a list of 17 literary examples of repetition .

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Norman ⁤Chapman, ‍a name that ⁤may​ not ring⁤ a bell‍ to many, but to those who⁢ are well-versed in the world of percussion, he is a ⁣legend. As ⁤an unsung hero of the ​drumming community, Chapman’s contributions to‍ the ‍art form are undeniable. From his early ⁢days in the music scene to his rise‌ to prominence ‌as a sought-after session player, Chapman’s story is one ⁣that deserves to be told. In this article, we will⁢ delve into the⁢ life and​ legacy ⁢of Norman Chapman, exploring⁢ his impact ⁢on ‍the world of ⁢drumming and the lasting impression he has ⁢left ‌on the music industry.

Table of Contents

• Unveiling the Legacy ⁢of Norman Chapman
• Exploring‍ the Impact of Chapman’s Work on Modern Art
• Norman Chapman: A​ Pioneer in Abstract​ Expressionism
• Recommendations for ⁤Appreciating Chapman’s Artistry Today
• To ⁤Wrap ⁢It Up

Unveiling ⁢the Legacy of Norman ⁣Chapman

When one thinks ⁢of influential figures in the ⁣world of art⁢ and⁢ design, Norman Chapman may not ‌be the first name ⁤that comes ⁣to ⁤mind. However, ‍his contributions to the field have left a lasting impact that is ⁣still felt today. Known for his innovative and forward-thinking⁢ approach,⁤ Chapman’s work pushed the boundaries of traditional design​ and paved the way for future generations‍ of artists.

• Chapman’s ⁤early ‌work in the 1950s was marked by his unique use of color⁢ and form. He was⁢ not afraid ‍to experiment⁢ with different ​mediums and techniques, resulting​ in‌ a body of work ‍that ‍was both⁣ diverse​ and⁣ cohesive.
• His later work in the 1970s‌ and 1980s saw a shift towards ‍more minimalist designs,⁣ with a focus on ⁢functionality and simplicity. Despite this change in style, Chapman’s work remained distinctly⁣ his own, with a strong‌ emphasis on craftsmanship ​and attention ⁢to detail.

In addition to his contributions ⁣to the world of art and design, Chapman was also a respected educator. ‍He taught ​at several prestigious ⁣institutions, ‌including the Rhode Island⁢ School of Design and​ the Art​ Institute ⁤of Chicago . His teachings have influenced countless artists and designers, ⁢many of whom have gone on to achieve ⁢great success ‍in their own right.

Chapman’s legacy ​continues to inspire and influence ⁢the art⁤ and design world. His work is a reminder that creativity knows no⁤ bounds, and that true innovation ⁣comes from⁤ breaking away from the‌ expected and ⁤embracing the ⁤unknown.

Exploring the ‍Impact of‌ Chapman’s Work on Modern Art

Norman Chapman’s work is often seen ​as a‌ bridge between ‍the⁣ traditional and the contemporary, blending classical techniques with modern⁣ themes. His influence on the art world can ⁢be seen‍ in⁢ numerous ways,‌ from the way he​ approached⁤ color and ‌form, to⁣ his ⁤innovative use of materials. ⁤Chapman’s⁣ work ​challenged ‍the norms of his‍ time, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable ⁣in⁣ the art ⁢world.

One⁢ of⁢ the most significant impacts of Chapman’s work is his exploration‌ of ‌the human form.⁣ He was known⁢ for his bold and ‌expressive ⁤use ‌of line,⁣ creating ‍dynamic ⁤and⁤ powerful figures⁤ that resonated with‌ viewers.⁢ Chapman’s work also often included elements of abstraction, blending ​realism with more conceptual ideas. ‌This approach ‍has ⁢inspired many⁤ contemporary artists, who have taken Chapman’s ideas and expanded​ on them in ⁤their own work.

• Use of vibrant and bold colors
• Innovative‌ approach to⁤ mixed media
• Exploration‌ of⁤ social and⁢ political ⁣themes

Chapman’s legacy can also be seen ⁢in‌ the way he approached the role of the artist in society. He ⁣was⁢ known ​for his activism and used his ⁢art as a platform to⁣ address social and political ‌issues. This ⁤has encouraged ‍many​ modern artists ‌to use‍ their work as a ‍means of⁤ sparking conversation and effecting change. Chapman’s work continues to ⁢be an⁤ important influence in the‌ art world,​ inspiring ‌artists to push the‌ limits of‌ what is ⁢possible.

Norman​ Chapman: A Pioneer in ‌Abstract Expressionism

Norman Chapman was a trailblazer ​in‌ the world ⁢of ⁤abstract ‍expressionism. His⁢ bold use of color, texture,⁣ and form set ⁣him⁢ apart from ⁢his contemporaries and​ established him as a ‌leader in ‌the‌ movement. ‌His ⁣innovative techniques and⁢ fearless ⁤experimentation with new materials pushed the boundaries of what was considered “acceptable” in‌ the art world.

Chapman’s early ⁢work‍ was heavily influenced⁢ by ‍the likes of ​Jackson Pollock and Willem de ​Kooning, but he quickly⁢ developed his own unique style. His large-scale canvases⁣ were filled with ⁣dynamic, gestural brushstrokes and ‍a vibrant palette ‍that captured ⁣the energy ​and⁤ emotion of⁤ the post-war era.

• Inspired by⁢ jazz music, Chapman⁣ often painted to the sounds of‍ bebop and hard bop, infusing his work with a sense of rhythm and movement.
• He was also known for ‍his⁣ use ‍of non-traditional ⁣materials, such ⁤as sand ⁤and broken⁤ glass, which added texture and ⁤depth to⁣ his pieces.
• Despite ⁣facing criticism from more traditional art critics, Chapman remained steadfast in⁢ his vision and⁣ continued to push the ‌limits of abstract⁣ expressionism.

Chapman’s impact​ on​ the art world cannot be understated. ⁤His influence can be ⁤seen in the work of countless artists who followed in his footsteps, and his paintings continue to ‍be celebrated ‍in galleries and museums ‍around the world.

Through his work, Norman Chapman⁤ challenged ‌viewers to‌ see beyond the traditional boundaries ‍of art‍ and to find beauty in ‌the chaos and complexity of the abstract world.

Recommendations for⁤ Appreciating ‌Chapman’s⁣ Artistry‌ Today

Norman Chapman’s artistry is a treasure that deserves to be appreciated by⁣ art ⁣enthusiasts and casual observers ⁤alike. To fully experience ​the depth and beauty of his⁣ work, there are several recommendations⁢ that can ‌enhance your ‌appreciation.​

Firstly, take ​the time ⁤to study⁢ the details of his pieces.​ Chapman’s ​attention to⁤ detail is exquisite, ⁢and‍ the more you look, ​the more you’ll find. Notice the intricate ⁤brushstrokes, the subtle​ use of‌ color, and the‌ way⁣ he captures ⁤light and shadow.

Another way⁢ to appreciate Chapman’s artistry is ‌to understand the context in which⁢ it ⁤was created. Research the historical and cultural influences that⁢ shaped his ‌work,‍ and⁢ consider how these‍ factors are ⁣reflected in his‍ art. This will give you a deeper appreciation for the ‌significance ⁢of​ his pieces.

Here are some additional recommendations for appreciating Chapman’s ⁤artistry:

– Visit galleries‍ and museums that showcase his work to ⁢see⁢ it in person – Attend lectures or discussions about his⁢ art to gain insights‌ from experts – Participate in art workshops that ⁣focus on his techniques and style

By following these recommendations, ‍you ⁣can ‍fully immerse yourself in the⁣ world of Norman Chapman and ‌gain‍ a greater appreciation⁣ for his remarkable artistry.

Q: Who​ is Norman Chapman? A: Norman Chapman is⁢ a‌ renowned⁣ author ​and lecturer known for his expertise​ in economics and‌ public policy.

Q:‍ What is Norman Chapman’s⁤ background in economics? A: Chapman holds a PhD ‍in ‍economics⁣ from Harvard University and ‍has published numerous scholarly articles and ⁣books on economic ‍theory and ​public policy.

Q:⁢ What ​are some of Norman ⁣Chapman’s most notable works ? A: Chapman’s book “Economics in the Modern World” is ⁣widely⁤ regarded as⁢ a seminal work in the ⁢field of economics. ​He ⁣has also‌ authored several‌ influential papers on⁣ topics such as income inequality and economic development.

Q: What are some of⁣ the key themes that Norman Chapman explores in his writing? A:⁢ Chapman’s work⁤ often delves into the intersection⁢ of⁣ economics and social welfare, ​examining the impact of ‍economic‍ policies on issues such as‌ poverty, education, and healthcare.

Q: In⁢ addition ⁢to his writing,‌ what other ⁣activities is Norman Chapman involved in? A:​ In addition to his writing and research, Chapman is also a sought-after speaker and‍ lecturer, and has served as a consultant for various government agencies and non-profit organizations.

Q: What is Norman ⁤Chapman’s⁢ approach to teaching and ‌education? A: Chapman is ​known for his engaging ‍and accessible teaching ​style,‍ and is committed to ‌making complex ⁤economic concepts understandable ‍and ‍relevant to ‍a wide audience.

Q:⁤ What is the significance‍ of​ Norman⁤ Chapman’s work in‌ the field of ⁢economics? A: Chapman’s work has had a significant impact⁢ on the ⁤study⁤ and‍ practice of economics, shaping the way we‌ understand and address critical social and economic issues. ​

To‍ Wrap It Up

In conclusion, Norman Chapman’s impact on the field ‍of economics and his dedication to ‌education and research ⁢are undeniable. ⁣His​ innovative⁣ ideas and passion for ⁤the subject have left a⁤ lasting‍ impression ⁣on the‍ academic‍ community.‌ As he continues to inspire ‌and influence ‌future​ generations of economists, it is clear that Norman ‍Chapman’s contributions will be felt for years ‌to‌ come.

Understanding Repetition in Language and Writing

Have ‍you ever noticed how certain things seem to repeat themselves ⁣in life? Whether it’s a daily routine, a familiar phrase, or‍ a recurring pattern,⁣ repetition is ⁢a fundamental​ aspect of our existence. ​But what exactly is repetition? In this article, we’ll explore‌ the various ​forms ⁢and functions‌ of repetition, as well as its impact⁣ on ⁤our lives. ‌From ⁤its role in‍ learning and memory to its ⁣use in art and literature, repetition is‌ a powerful ⁣tool that shapes our experiences and influences our behavior. So⁣ let’s dive in‍ and uncover the ‍significance of ‍this ubiquitous phenomenon.

• Understanding ⁢Repetition and its Role in Language
• Different Types of Repetition and Their Effects
• How Repetition Enhances ⁢Memory and Learning
• Strategies for Using ⁣Repetition Effectively in Communication

Key Takeaways

Understanding repetition‌ and⁢ its role in language.

Repetition is a linguistic tool⁤ used⁢ to ⁢emphasize ⁣or reinforce ‌a particular word,​ phrase,⁤ or idea. It can ⁣be found⁤ in various forms, such as alliteration ​ (repetition of consonant sounds at⁢ the ‍beginning of words), assonance (repetition of vowel sounds within words), and anaphora ‍ (repetition of ⁤a word⁣ or ‌phrase at the beginning ⁣of successive clauses⁢ or sentences).

In literature, repetition is​ often used‍ to create​ rhythm, build ⁤suspense, or highlight important themes. For example, in⁢ poetry, repeating certain lines or stanzas can create⁤ a‍ musical⁤ quality that⁢ enhances ​the overall reading experience. In speeches,⁢ repeating a key phrase can ​make it more memorable ‍and‌ impactful for the audience.

Repetition also plays a crucial role in language learning. ‍It helps to ‍reinforce vocabulary⁣ and grammatical ⁢structures, making them easier ‍to⁣ remember ‍and use. Here is⁣ a ‍table showcasing the different types of repetition and​ their ​purposes:

Whether it’s ‍used in ‌literature, speeches, or ⁣everyday conversations, repetition is a ⁢powerful tool that can help to convey meaning ⁣and add depth to language.

Different Types of Repetition and Their ⁣Effects

Repetition is a literary device ⁤that involves the recurrence of ​words, phrases or sentences within a passage or poem. It is used to create emphasis,⁢ convey a message, or establish a rhythm. There are several types of repetition,‍ each with its own ‍effect on⁢ the reader.

Firstly,⁤ we have anaphora , which is the repetition of a word or phrase ⁤at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. This ⁤type of repetition is⁤ often‌ used ⁢to build⁤ momentum and create a⁤ sense of urgency. For example,‌ Martin Luther King Jr.’s⁣ famous “I have a dream”⁤ speech ‌uses ⁣anaphora to great effect.

Another⁣ type⁢ of ​repetition is⁢ epistrophe , which is​ the repetition ​of a​ word or phrase at⁤ the end of successive clauses or sentences. This creates a sense of‌ closure and can be used⁤ to emphasize⁢ the final point of an ‌argument.

Lastly, we have symploce , which combines both anaphora and epistrophe by repeating words or⁣ phrases at the⁣ beginning and ‌end of successive clauses‌ or sentences. ​This⁢ creates a powerful rhythm ⁤and can help to hammer home a key message.

Here’s a table with examples ⁤of each type of​ repetition:

Using⁢ repetition strategically can greatly enhance ‍ the impact of a piece of writing, whether it⁢ be a​ speech, poem, ‍or⁤ prose. It’s important to choose ⁢the right type⁢ of repetition for the desired effect and ​to use it sparingly to ‌avoid overkill.

How Repetition Enhances Memory and Learning

Repetition is ‍a powerful tool that can greatly enhance​ memory and learning. ‍It involves the process of repeatedly ‍exposing oneself ⁢to ⁤the same information⁢ or task, with the goal of ⁤making⁤ it easier to recall⁢ and understand. This technique is⁤ based on the⁣ idea that the‍ more times ⁢we encounter something, the more likely we are to remember it.

One ‍of the key benefits of repetition is that it helps to reinforce the neural connections in our⁤ brain. Each time we encounter ‍information‌ or ⁢perform⁤ a task, our⁢ brain creates new connections. By repeating‍ the process, we strengthen those connections, making it easier​ for our ‌brain to​ access the information⁤ when needed. This is why practicing a ‌skill or studying the same material multiple times can lead ‌to improvement and mastery.

Repetition can take many forms, including:

– ​ Spaced repetition: This involves reviewing‌ information at increasing intervals‍ of time, such as daily, weekly, ​and monthly. ⁢Spaced​ repetition ​has ​been​ shown to be highly effective ‌ in helping to retain information for ​longer periods of time. – Active recall: This⁤ involves ⁤actively trying to remember information ‍without looking at it, such as using flashcards or taking practice tests. – Overlearning: ‌This ‍involves continuing to study or ⁤practice a skill ⁤even after it has been⁣ mastered, to ensure that it ⁢becomes‍ second nature.

In summary,⁢ repetition ⁢is a highly effective⁣ strategy for enhancing memory ⁣and‍ learning. By repeatedly exposing ourselves ⁤to​ information or ‍tasks, ⁢we can strengthen the neural connections in our brain, making it​ easier to ‌recall and understand the material. ⁤Whether through ⁢spaced repetition, active recall, or overlearning, ‌incorporating ⁢repetition into our ​study or practice routines⁢ can lead to significant improvements ‌in our ability ⁢to remember and⁣ learn.

Strategies for⁣ Using Repetition⁣ Effectively ‌in Communication

Repetition is ⁣a powerful tool in communication⁢ that‌ can be ⁤used ‍to ⁢emphasize key points, make messages more⁢ memorable, and persuade ⁤your audience. When used effectively, repetition⁣ can create a sense ‍of⁢ familiarity and comfort, ​making ‌it ‍more ⁣likely that your message will be well-received and‍ acted upon.

One strategy ‌for using repetition effectively ⁣is to repeat ‌key‌ phrases throughout your communication. This can help to reinforce ​your main message and make it more‌ likely to stick in‍ the minds‌ of your audience. For ‌example,​ if‌ you are⁣ giving a presentation on the importance of teamwork, you might repeat the ⁢phrase “Together,⁢ we can⁣ achieve ‍more” at various‍ points throughout your talk.

Another strategy is to use repetition⁤ to create a⁣ rhythm in your communication.⁢ This can help to make your message more engaging and memorable. For example, if you are writing ​a‌ blog post about⁣ the benefits of exercise, you might ‌use a repetitive⁤ structure‌ such as ​listing ⁤the benefits with the same starting phrase, like “Exercise can improve ⁢your mood,⁣ exercise⁢ can increase your energy levels,​ exercise can‍ boost your‌ immune system,” ⁤etc.

Here is an example ⁤of how ⁤repetition can be used effectively in a table format:

In⁢ summary, repetition ⁢can be a powerful ⁤tool in ‌communication when used effectively. By repeating‌ key phrases and⁣ creating​ a rhythm,⁣ you can ⁢make your message more memorable and persuasive.

Q: ‌What is repetition? A: Repetition is the act of repeating something that has already been ​said⁣ or written, often for emphasis or to make a ‍point more clear.

Q: What are the different types of‌ repetition? A:‌ There⁣ are several types of repetition,⁤ including anaphora (repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences), epistrophe⁤ (repeating the‍ same word‌ or phrase at ⁢the end of successive clauses or⁣ sentences), ⁣and parallelism (repeating the same grammatical⁤ structure‍ in⁢ a series​ of ⁣phrases ‌or⁤ sentences).

Q: Why is repetition used ‍in ​writing⁣ and speech? A: Repetition is used to⁣ emphasize important points, ⁤create rhythm and cohesion in⁢ writing and speech, ⁢and to make ⁣concepts more memorable to the audience.

Q: What are some examples of effective repetition in literature and‍ speeches? A: Some famous‍ examples of⁢ repetition in⁢ literature and speeches include Martin Luther King​ Jr.’s ​”I Have a Dream” speech, where he‌ repeats the ⁤phrase “I have a dream” ⁣for ​emphasis, and William‌ Shakespeare’s use⁣ of anaphora‌ in the “To be, or not to be” soliloquy from Hamlet.

Q: How can repetition be ‌used effectively in writing? A: ⁣Repetition⁢ can⁤ be ​used effectively in writing to draw attention to‌ key ⁢ideas,⁢ create a sense of unity and ⁤coherence, and establish ‍a particular rhythm⁣ or tone. However, overusing repetition can result ⁣in redundancy and loss of impact,​ so it ​should ⁣be used ⁤judiciously.​

In conclusion, repetition is a fundamental concept that ⁤plays a ⁤crucial role‌ in many aspects of our daily ⁢lives, from language and music to learning⁤ and memory. By understanding how repetition works and⁣ its impact on our cognition, ⁤we can better appreciate its significance⁤ and​ use it to our advantage. Whether it’s for ​reinforcing information, creating patterns, or ​enhancing the impact⁣ of a message, repetition is a⁣ powerful tool that can be harnessed to achieve various objectives. So, the next time you come across repetition in your‌ day-to-day ⁣experiences, take a moment⁤ to ‍consider ⁤its ⁢underlying purpose and how‌ it⁤ contributes to​ the‍ overall effectiveness of the communication or task at ⁣hand. ‌

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• Humanities ›
• English Grammar ›

Definition and Examples of Repetition in Writing

Glossary of Grammatical and Rhetorical Terms

• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

Repetition is an instance of using a word, phrase, or clause more than once in a short passage—dwelling on a point.

Needless or unintentional repetition (a tautology or pleonasm ) is a kind of clutter that may distract or bore a reader. (The baseless fear of repetition is humorously called  monologophobia .) 

Used deliberately, repetition can be an effective rhetorical strategy for achieving emphasis.

Types of Rhetorical Repetition With Examples

• Anadiplosis Repetition of the last word of one line or clause to begin the next. "My conscience hath a thousand several tongues, And every tongue brings in a several tale, And every tale condemns me for a villain." (William Shakespeare, "Richard III")
• Anaphora Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or verses. " I want her to live. I want her to breathe. I want her to aerobicize." ("Weird Science," 1985)
• Antistasis Repetition of a word in a different or contrary sense. "A kleptomaniac is a person who helps himself because he can't help himself ." (Henry Morgan)
• Commoratio Emphasizing a point by repeating it several times in different words. "Space is big. You just won't believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it's a long way down the road to the chemist's, but that's just peanuts to space." (Douglass Adams, "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," 1979)
• Diacope Repetition that is broken up by one or more intervening words. " A horse is a horse , of course, of course, And no one can talk to a horse of course That is, of course, unless the horse is the famous Mister Ed." (Theme song of 1960s TV program "Mr. Ed")
• Epanalepsis Repetition at the end of a clause or sentence of the word or phrase with which it began. " Swallow , my sister, O sister swallow , How can thine heart be full of the spring?" (Algernon Charles Swinburne, "Itylus")
• Epimone Frequent repetition of a phrase or question; dwelling on a point. "And I looked upwards, and there stood a man upon the summit of the rock; and I hid myself among the water-lilies that I might discover the actions of the man. ... "And the man sat upon the rock, and leaned his head upon his hand, and looked out upon the desolation. ... And I lay close within shelter of the lilies, and observed the actions of the man. And the man trembled in the solitude;—but the night waned, and he sat upon the rock." (Edgar Allan Poe, "Silence") "The man who stood, who stood on sidewalks, who stood facing streets, who stood with his back against store windows or against the walls of buildings, never asked for money, never begged, never put his hand out." (Gordon Lish, "Sophistication")
• Epiphora Repetition of a word or phrase at the end of several clauses. "She's safe, just like I promised . She's all set to marry Norrington, just like she promised . And you get to die for her, just like you promised ." (Jack Sparrow, The Pirates of the Caribbean )
• Epizeuxis Repetition of a word or phrase for emphasis, usually with no words in between. "If you think you can win , you can win ." (William Hazlitt) "Will you ever be old and dumb, like your creepy parents? Not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, not you." (Donald Hall, "To a Waterfowl")
• Gradatio A sentence construction in which the last word of one clause becomes the first of the next, through three or more clauses (an extended form of anadiplosis ). "To exist is to change , to change is to mature , to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly." (Henri Bergson)
• Negative-Positive Restatement A method of achieving emphasis by stating an idea twice, first in negative terms and then in positive terms. "Color is not a human or personal reality; it is a political reality." (James Baldwin)
• Ploce Repetition of a word with a new or specified sense, or with pregnant reference to its special significance. "If it wasn't in Vogue , it wasn't in vogue ." (Promotional slogan for Vogue magazine)
• Polyptoton Repetition of words derived from the same root but with different endings. "I hear the voices, and I read the front page, and I know the speculation. But I'm the decider , and I decide what is best." (George W. Bush, April 2006)
• Symploce Repetition of words or phrases at both the beginning and end of successive clauses or verses: a combination of anaphora and epiphora. " They are not paid for thinking— they are not paid to fret about the world's concerns. They were not respectable people—they were not worthy people—they were not learned and wise and brilliant people—but in their breasts, all their stupid lives long, resteth a peace that passeth understanding!" (Mark Twain, "The Innocents Abroad," 1869)

Needless Repetition

When a writer repeats a word or phrase for no meaningful or literary purpose it ends up being a distraction.

• "Moore's sentence imposed the maximum 24-month sentence under federal sentencing guidelines." ("Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Paula Deen Extortion Bid." Savannah Morning News , September 17, 2013)
• My favorite painting is the painting I did of my dog in that painting in my den.
• "Johnson is currently serving as a scholar in residence at Savannah State where he is currently working on a book about his life." ("Still Sailing on the Winds of Change."  Savannah Morning News , August 23, 2015)
• "If you compare fly-fishing with ice fishing , you will find that fly-fishing is more exciting than ice fishing ." (Stephen Wilbers in "Keys to Great Writing")
• "Some text  editors  and reporters exhibit in their copy the kind of phobia that makes us go downstairs ten times to check that the light is off. They have a nagging doubt that the reader has not quite got the point--so they keep going on about it. Once is enough for most pieces of information. When the information is merely incidental its   repetition is doubly irritating. Here's an example from  The New York Times : A disappointment among the data is that while infant mortality has continued to decline, and is almost at the goal,  there remains a great disparity between the rate for whites and for Blacks . The death rate among Black infants is about twice that for whites, Dr. Richmond said. 'and has been that way for decades.' The italicized words in the original story tell us nothing. So it boils down to: A disappointment is that while infant mortality has continued to decline, almost to the goal, the death rate among Black infants is about twice that for whites . . ." (Harold Evans,  Essential English for Journalists, Editors and Writers , rev. ed. Pimlico, 2000) 

Observations

" [R]epetition skulks under numerous different names, one might almost say aliases, depending on who is repeating what where:

When parrots do it, it's parrotting. When advertisers do it, it's reinforcement. When children do it, it's imitation. When brain-damaged people do it, it's perseveration or echolalia. When disfluent people do it, it's stuttering or stammering. When orators do it, it's epizeuxis, ploce, anadiplosis, polyptoton or antimetabole. When novelists do it, it's cohesion. When poets do it, it's alliteration, chiming, rhyme, or parallelism. When priests do it, it's ritual. When sounds do it, it's gemination. When morphemes do it, it's reduplication. When phrases do it, it's copying. When conversations do it, it's reiteration.

In sum, the following alphabetical list of 27 terms covers repetition's commonest guises, though there are undoubtedly more to be found in specialized areas such as classical rhetoric :

Alliteration, anadiplosis, antimetabole, assonance, battology, chiming, cohesion, copying, doubling, echolalia, epizeuxis, gemination, imitation, iteration, parallelism, parrotting, perseveration, ploce, polyptoton, reduplication, reinforcement, reiteration, rhyme, ritual, shadowing, stammering, stuttering

As the numerous names suggest, repetition covers an enormous area. In one sense, the whole of linguistics can be regarded as the study of repetition, in that language depends on repeated patterns." (Jean Aitchison,  "'Say, Say It Again Sam': The Treatment of Repetition in Linguistics." Repetition, ed. by Andreas Fischer. Gunter Narr Verlag, 1994)

" Repetition is a far less serious fault than obscurity. Young writers are often unduly afraid of repeating the same word, and require to be reminded that it is always better to use the right word over again, than to replace it by a wrong one--and a word which is liable to be misunderstood is a wrong one. A frank repetition of a word has even sometimes a kind of charm--as bearing the stamp of truth, the foundation of all excellence of style." (Theophilus Dwight Hall, "A Manual of English Composition." John Murray, 1880)

• Definition and Examples of Overwriting
• monologophobia
• What is Redundancy?
• Effective Rhetorical Strategies of Repetition
• Definition, Examples of the Rhetorical Term Epanalepsis
• Definition and Examples of Pseudowords
• Consonance (Word Sounds)
• What Is Antistasis?
• Padding and Composition
• semantic satiation
• Assonance Definition and Examples
• Ways of Achieving Emphasis in Writing and in Speech
• Anadiplosis: Definition and Examples
• Polyptoton (Rhetoric)
• What Is Alliteration in English?