reiteration
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˌiːˌɪtərˈeɪʃən/
US
- /riˌɪtərˈeɪʃən/
Description
- repetition
- restatement
- emphasis
- recurrence
Imagine a detective questioning a witness. They do not just ask something once; they may come back to the same point in different ways to make things clear and bring out important details. That is the heart of *reiteration: saying something again, not always word for word, but in a way that strengthens the message. It is more than simple repetition. It is a careful restating of something so people understand it better or remember it more clearly. A politician might use reiteration* to press a key message during a speech, and a teacher might use it when explaining a hard idea so the class can follow along.
*Reiteration refers to the act of repeating a statement, idea, or theme—often with slight variations—for the purpose of emphasis or clarity. It is not just mindless repetition; it is a purposeful restatement designed to reinforce understanding or drive home a point. Think of a song's chorus: it reiterates* the main message throughout the tune, making it both memorable and impactful.
The context of usage is vital. In legal settings, lawyers might use *reiteration during cross-examination to expose inconsistencies in testimony. In persuasive writing or public speaking, it serves as a powerful rhetorical device. A marketing campaign might reiterate* its core message across multiple platforms—TV commercials, social media posts, and print ads—to ensure the brand sticks with the audience.
However, *reiteration isn't always positive. Excessive use can come across as pedantic or annoying. If someone constantly reiterates* a point you already understand, they might be perceived as condescending rather than helpful.
Here are some examples:
"The manager's constant reiteration* of the company's values felt more like nagging than leadership." "After several failed attempts to explain the complex theory, she resorted to reiteration*, breaking it down into simpler terms." "The news report focused on the reiteration* of safety concerns following the recent accident."
Ultimately, *reiteration* is a versatile term describing the act of repeating with purpose—whether that purpose is to clarify, to emphasize, or perhaps even to irritate. It's about saying it again, but with intent.
Examples
- 1
Follow-up email
Her follow-up email was mostly a reiteration of the main points from the meeting.
- 2
Political speech
The minister's speech offered no new policy, only a reiteration of earlier promises.
- 3
Repeated warning
The constant reiteration of the same warning eventually made people stop listening.
- 4
Report conclusion
The report ended with a reiteration that safety had to come before speed.
Pattern
reiteration that + statement
repeating a full idea or statement
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- reiterationnoun
Forms
- reiterationspluralnoun