Analyze the line:

"I should have put you down myself... Personally". Is the use of the word 'personally' redundant in this line?

1 answer

The line "I should have put you down myself... Personally" uses the word "personally" in a way that can be interpreted as emphasizing the speaker's individual intention or responsibility for the action of "putting you down."

While "myself" already conveys a sense of personal involvement, the use of "personally" serves to intensify that sentiment. It implies a deeper emotional connection or conviction behind the statement, suggesting that the speaker feels strongly about the act and believes it should have been done by them rather than by someone else.

However, one could argue that "personally" is somewhat redundant since "myself" already indicates personal agency. The phrase could stand alone with "myself" and still convey a strong message. In this sense, whether "personally" is redundant might depend on the intended tone and emphasis of the speaker. In more casual speech, it might come off as unnecessary, while in a dramatic or serious context, it could add weight to the sentiment being expressed.