Use of Repetition in Language

The use of repetition in language is common. It can serve many functions. They include hesitation, emphasis and suspense.

Speakers may use repetition when they are not sure what they wish to say. In these circumstances, repetition functions in the same manner as a filler such as uh or um. For example, the sentence Let's meet at at three may indicate that the speaker is thinking carefully of the time he/she wishes to suggest.

Emphasis is another reason for the use of repetition in language. This is exemplified in phrases such as very, very good, so, so funny and yes, it is, it is. In the first two examples, the degree words very and so are repeated, but in the last example, an entire sentence, it is, is repeated.

Repetition can also be used to create suspense. This is illustrated in the examples I won one one million dollars and It was my my brother who called. In these causes a pause may also come before the repeated information.

Repetition is often used in language. It can serve a variety of functions. Three functions of repetition are to show hesitation, emphasize information and create suspense.