repetitious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
repetitious Word Meanings
- characterized by repetition
- often tiresomely so
- repeatedly occurring
repetitious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
repetitious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛpəˈtɪʃəs/
US
/ˌrɛpɪˈtɪʃəs/
repetitious Word Etymology
Root: 'repetere' (to repeat) + suffix: '-itious' (pertaining to). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a teacher endlessly repeating a lesson to ensure everyone understands—it becomes boring after a while, just like something that is repetitious.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Repetitious describes something that repeats itself beyond what is useful or interesting, often in a way that feels tiresome. It can refer to actions, explanations, patterns, or stories that occur again and again without adding new information. In everyday speech, you might call a lecture repetitious if the instructor keeps restating the same point without offering fresh evidence. The word carries a negative judgment about the monotony of repetition, suggesting dullness or annoyance, though repetition for emphasis or learning can be effective in some contexts. The memory image is a teacher endlessly repeating a lesson to ensure everyone understands—eventually it becomes boring, trivializing the content.
Usage Reminders
- Use repetitious only when the repetition feels excessive and tiresome.
- Pair repetition with new supporting details to avoid dullness.
- Remember the negative connotation of the word.
- Limit use to persistent patterns or ideas, not casual repeats.
- Consider synonyms like repetitive, monotonous, or redundant for nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- It means only that something repeats, with no judgment attached.
- It can be used for any mild repetition without implying annoyance.
- It refers to people more than to things or ideas.
- It is interchangeable with 'repetitive' in all contexts.
- It describes a one-time event rather than a pattern.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, repetitious often signals an excess that contrasts with the more neutral 'repetitive.' Learners should note the negative tone and avoid overusing it in casual conversation.
Learning Tips
- Look for repetition that adds no new information.
- Practice using it in a sentence to convey tone.
- Compare with 'repetitive' and 'monotonous' to nuance meaning.
- Avoid overusing it in formal writing.
- Read passages and note any repetitious phrases.
- Keep a mini-glossary of synonyms for precision.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'repetitious' mean?
A.Characterized by repetition or redundancy
B.Able to repeat easily
C.Having various unique elements
D.Infrequently occurring
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'repetitious' correctly?
A.The chef created a repetitious dish that had different flavors each time.
B.His speech was so repetitious that it put the audience to sleep.
C.She found the repetitious scenery captivating and unique.
D.Their friendship was repetitious because they never met before.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'repetitious'?
A.Adventurous
B.Monotonous
C.Unique
D.Impressive
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'repetitious'?
A.Dull
B.Novel
C.Routine
D.Predictable
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something can be described as repetitious?
A.The artist showcased a new technique every week that surprised everyone.
B.She enjoyed trying new recipes every day, making cooking exciting.
C.Every morning, the kids would have repetitious tasks like packing the same lunch.
D.The movie had unpredictable plot twists that kept the viewers engaged.
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