Multiple choice

Directions: In the following sentence, identify the word or words that are uncalled for (words which are redundant and are not required in the sentence) and should be omitted.

That was the sum and substance of his discourse.

  1. sum and

  2. and

  3. substance

  4. his
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A Correct answer
Explanation

The expression "sum and substance" is a pleonasm, where two words with nearly identical meanings are used together. In this sentence, "substance" alone conveys the core meaning of the discourse. Removing "sum and" makes the sentence more efficient and less repetitive.

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