Writing errors

The general consensus is that an opening gambit is superfluously redundant

However, while many expressions sneak by even the most pedantic of wordsmiths, there are some which are so blatantly redundant they should be caught and destroyed, “opening gambit” being one of them.

A “gambit” is an opening move by someone against a rival that involves a sacrifice. Gambit implies first move, so to say “opening gambit” is ridiculous given you never read or hear about a “second gambit”.

Another common mistake is the term “general consensus”. This is an amazingly popular error that even seasoned journalists and writers continue to make.

“Consensus” will always be general because the very word means a general agreement among members of a group or community.

Still, you see “general consensus” being repeated in all forms of journalism by professionals who are obliged to treat their readers with more respect.

“Close proximity” is another one. Proximity means close by. After all, you don’t say “far proximity”.

Other obvious ones include: basic fundamentals, brief cameo, honest truth, local residents, mutual cooperation etc.

Sneaky ones, in my opinion anyway, may be: empty space, common bond, new record, personal belongings, random chance and others.

The main thing is to think about each word you write and make sure you are not repeating yourself.

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