Q:

What is the term for when somebody answers your question with the same phrase as your question

For example, I would say "Why is this thing popular?" And someone else responds with "Because it is popular." What is that type of answer called? I've heard the term before but I can't remember. Another example is "How do I operate this machine?" Response, "By operating it."

A:

Are you thinking of a "tautology"?

1a : needless repetition of an idea, statement, or word
b : an instance of tautology
2 : a tautological statement

(Merriam-Webster)

