english language 2

[mash101]

thanks to all who answered the question re tautology. Here is another related question: Is there a name given to a phrase which contains unnecessary emphasis, for example 'very ancient' or 'little bit terrified'?

[incitatus]

I have seen this sort of thing described as hyperemphasis, but am willing to be contradicted by linguists out there. It is an interesting one, though as it is indicative of the eviolution of language. Words that were seen as absolutes require emphasis over time as their impact degrades.