WordValecliché
an expression made stale by overuse
In more detail
1. (noun) a phrase or idea that has been used so often that it is no longer interesting or original
2. (noun) something that is very typical or predictable because it has been done so many times before
Examples
- The phrase 'at the end of the day' has become a cliché in business writing.
- The movie relies on clichés like the hero arriving just in time to save the day.
How to use cliché
A cliché is an overused expression or idea that has lost its freshness, power, or meaning through repetition. It typically appears in writing, speech, or cultural works where originality is valued. The word carries a mildly negative tone, suggesting lazy or predictable thinking.
Common phrases
- tired cliché
- avoid clichés
- a cliché ridden narrative
- resort to clichés
- steer clear of clichés
- become a cliché
Synonyms
platitude · truism · banality · commonplace · tired phrase
Opposites
originality · novelty
Word family
clichéd (adjective) · cliché (noun) · clichéd (adjective variant)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse cliché with simply repeating something; clichés are specifically expressions or ideas that are worn out from excessive use, not just any repetition.
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