Language term
Repetition
Deliberately repeating words or phrases for emphasis and effect.
What it means
Repetition is the deliberate use of the same word, phrase or structure more than once for emphasis and effect. By returning to a key word or idea, a writer drives it home, creates rhythm, and makes a point memorable. Repetition can build emotion, reinforce an argument, or give a piece of writing a strong, insistent beat.
It appears throughout persuasive writing, speeches and poetry. It works closely with related techniques such as the rule of three and anaphora. Used carefully, repetition is powerful; used carelessly, it becomes clumsy and tiring for the reader.
Why it matters in the exam
In the reading and Literature papers, identify repetition and explain what the repeated word or idea emphasises. This is a dependable way to analyse a writer's method. In your own persuasive writing and speeches, deliberate repetition reinforces your message and creates rhythm, which examiners reward.
The key skill is distinguishing purposeful repetition, which adds emphasis, from accidental repetition, which is simply a weakness in the writing that proofreading should remove.
Example
A speaker repeats we will not wait at the start of several sentences. This hammers home their impatience and gives the appeal a driving, determined rhythm.
How to use it
In analysis, identify the repeated element and explain what it emphasises and how it affects rhythm or emotion. Do not just note the repetition. In your own persuasive writing, repeat a key word or phrase deliberately for impact.
But avoid careless repetition of ordinary words, which weakens writing. When proofreading, cut accidental repetition while keeping any that serves a clear purpose.
Knowing the term is the first step. In a paid one-hour trial, a teacher helps your child use "Repetition" accurately in an answer.