a cliche

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cliche" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an overused expression or idea that has lost its originality or impact. Example: "The phrase 'time heals all wounds' is often considered a cliche in discussions about grief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Arts

Lifestyle

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is it a cliche?

The Guardian - Books

Already a cliche.

The Guardian

"What a cliche".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Is that a cliche?

The Guardian - Books

It's almost a cliche.

The Guardian

It's becoming a cliche.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Everything seems to come out a cliche.

The New Yorker

It has become a cliche.

The New York Times - Food

It's a cliche - you are the present".

Independent

"It's a cliche," he says.

The Guardian - Arts

Or is that just a cliche?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a cliche", ensure it adds value by specifically identifying the cliché and explaining why it's problematic in the context. Avoid simply labeling something as "a cliche" without further analysis.

Common error

Avoid casually dismissing ideas or expressions as clichés without explaining why they are overused or ineffective in the given situation. Provide specific reasons or examples to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cliche" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or object complement. It serves to categorize something as an overused expression or idea. As seen in Ludwig AI, the phrase is used to identify and often critique the lack of originality in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Lifestyle

8%

Books

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cliche" is a commonly used phrase to describe something that has become overused and lacks originality. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence, particularly in News & Media sources. While often used critically, understanding its nuances and providing context when using it can enhance writing. Be mindful of overusing the term itself; consider alternatives like "a tired trope" or "an overused expression" for variety and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hackneyed phrase

Similar to a cliché, but often refers specifically to language that has lost its impact through overuse.

an overused expression

Highlights the excessive repetition of a particular phrase.

a stock phrase

Implies that the expression is ready-made and lacks personal touch.

a worn-out idea

Emphasizes the lack of novelty and overuse of a concept.

a trite saying

Suggests the expression is commonplace and lacks depth.

a stale concept

Focuses on the lack of freshness and originality of an idea.

a commonplace notion

Indicates that the idea is widely accepted and unoriginal.

a tired trope

Focuses on the repetitiveness and lack of freshness in narratives or artistic expressions.

an unoriginal theme

Points to a lack of innovation in the subject matter.

a predictable plot

Highlights the lack of surprise or novelty in a story's storyline.

FAQs

How can I use "a cliche" in a sentence?

You can use "a cliche" to describe an overused phrase or idea. For example, "Saying 'actions speak louder than words' is often "a cliche" because it's so frequently repeated."

What are some alternatives to using "a cliche"?

Instead of saying something is "a cliche", you could say it's "a tired trope", "a worn-out idea", or "an overused expression".

Is it always negative to describe something as "a cliche"?

While "a cliche" typically implies something is unoriginal, it can also acknowledge a widely understood concept. The negativity depends on the context and whether the cliché is being used effectively or simply out of habit.

What makes an idea or expression become "a cliche"?

An idea or expression becomes "a cliche" when it is used so frequently that it loses its original impact and becomes predictable or uninspired. Repetition across various contexts contributes to this effect.