Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'various and sundry,' a classic example of redundancy in the English language.
The phrase “various and sundry” denotes a collection of miscellaneous items or entities of differing kinds. It is often employed to describe a diverse assortment of elements, emphasizing their variety and lack of uniformity. The phrase is considered redundant, as both adjectives convey similar meanings.
The term “various” has been used since the 1500s to indicate a variety or assortment of different kinds. The word “sundry,” although less commonly used in contemporary language, has been present since the late 1700s, signifying a collection of miscellaneous items. The pairing of “various” and “sundry” likely originated from inventory lists or accounting records, where a comprehensive enumeration of diverse items was necessary. This redundancy underscores the emphasis on the heterogeneity of the items described.
“Various and sundry” functions as a tautological expression, where the repetition of similar meanings serves to reinforce the concept of diversity and miscellany. The phrase highlights the lack of a specific category or uniformity among the items or subjects it describes. In contemporary usage, it often carries a slightly archaic or formal tone, given the rarity of “sundry” in modern vernacular.
In contemporary culture, “various and sundry” is frequently encountered in literary and formal contexts, where it serves to lend an air of sophistication or traditionalism. It is less common in everyday speech but may appear in legal or bureaucratic documents, reflecting its historical roots in inventory and record-keeping.
In professional contexts, “various and sundry” may be used to describe a range of items or subjects without delving into specifics, often in reports or summaries. Socially, its use might be more humorous or ironic, given its formal connotations. In literary contexts, it can serve as a stylistic device to evoke a sense of antiquity or tradition.
The phrase “various and sundry” retains a degree of relevance in formal and literary contexts, though its everyday usage has diminished. Its durability is moderate, given its redundancy and the declining use of “sundry” in modern language. ★★★☆☆
“The library was filled with various and sundry volumes, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.” - Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice (Note: This is a fictional illustrative quote for demonstration purposes)