elegant variation

Definition

The use of synonyms to avoid repetition (regarded as a stylistic fault when done excessively).

Etymology

Introduced by H. W. Fowler and F. G. Fowler in The King's English (1906).

Example Sentences

• "A closely related rule for encoding legal texts is the same meaning, same form principle. We saw previously that this rule requires lawyers to avoid elegant variation. Instead, they should consistently use one word if they mean the same thing."