a hackneyed expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hackneyed expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a phrase or idea that has become overused and lacks originality. Example: "The phrase 'time heals all wounds' is often considered a hackneyed expression in discussions about grief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Proving the doubters wrong has become such a hackneyed expression of late that one red-top sports editor sent a department-wide email last year outlawing its use in intros.

The Guardian - Sport

But it was in the middle of a joke skewering the ridiculousness of a hackneyed expression — a classic Seinfeld tactic — at Carolines last weekend that he showed telling range.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a hackneyed expression that simultaneous induction of multiple cell signaling pathways occurs in biological systems, but it is nonetheless true, even in the context of concurrent induction of cell death and cell survival pathways.

Cell Death and Disease

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

SIMMS: There was that Steve Martin piece, "Studio Script Notes on 'The Passion' " — it's a hackneyed formula, but his piece was hilarious.

The New Yorker

Let's try to avoid this hackneyed expression.

The New York Times

Stendhal: "We ought to move on from this hackneyed expression; nevertheless, it does happen".

The Guardian - Books

Deployed by people who see an empty text box in front of them and can't think what to say, they pluck some hackneyed expression from the recesses of their mind and start typing.

Independent

It's time to retire this hackneyed expression to the final resting place of platitudes, alongside "I'm stepping down to spend more time with my family," or "It's not you, it's me".

The New York Times

"He was terribly distressed," wrote Vyvyan many years later, "and the hackneyed expression 'he never smiled again' was for him almost true... Shortly before he was killed by a German sniper in the first war he wrote to me: "I was nine years old when I saw the first placard.

The Guardian

There would be no more snide comments about their strangely un-Italian view of lederhosen as a legitimate fashion choice, no more hackneyed expressions of surprise at the idea of Italians favouring dumplings and pickled cabbage over pasta and pizza.

The Guardian - Travel

Knowing he was being honored in New York yesterday, I called him to ask what he would say about Tillman if he were in my position and were trying to avoid the hackneyed expressions of how this sad occurrence brings perspective to the games we play that are too often packaged as war.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consciously avoid using phrases that have become "a hackneyed expression". Opt for more original and nuanced language to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate thoughtfulness.

Common error

Avoid relying on "a hackneyed expression" as a shortcut for conveying meaning. Instead, develop your own unique phrasing to express ideas with freshness and clarity, enhancing the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a hackneyed expression" is that of a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, referring to a phrase that has become overused. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hackneyed expression" is a noun phrase used to describe an overused and unoriginal phrase. Ludwig's analysis indicates that while grammatically correct, it is relatively rare and appears primarily in News & Media and Scientific contexts. To enhance your writing, avoid relying on "a hackneyed expression" and instead opt for more original language. Be mindful of overuse to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate thoughtfulness. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correctly used to pinpoint clichés and lacks originality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an overused phrase

Focuses on the overuse aspect, simplifying the expression.

a trite saying

Replaces 'hackneyed' with 'trite' indicating staleness and lack of freshness.

a clichéd phrase

Uses the more common term 'clichéd' to describe the expression.

a stale expression

Emphasizes the lack of freshness or originality.

a worn-out phrase

Highlights the idea that the phrase has been used so much it's lost its impact.

a tired expression

Similar to 'worn-out' but suggests the phrase is ineffective due to overuse.

a commonplace expression

Indicates the phrase is ordinary and unremarkable.

a banal saying

Replaces 'hackneyed' with 'banal', suggesting the saying is unoriginal and boring.

an unoriginal phrase

Directly states the lack of originality.

a pedestrian expression

Suggests the expression is ordinary and lacks flair.

FAQs

How can I identify "a hackneyed expression" in my writing?

Look for phrases that you've heard or read repeatedly in various contexts. If a phrase feels overfamiliar or evokes a sense of staleness, it's likely "a hackneyed expression". Consider replacing it with something more original.

What are some signs that a phrase is becoming "a hackneyed expression"?

Common signs include frequent use in popular media, a lack of impact when used, and a sense that the phrase has lost its original meaning or force. If a phrase no longer resonates or feels fresh, it may be time to retire it.

Which is a more formal alternative to "a hackneyed expression"?

A more formal alternative could be "an overused phrase" or "a trite saying". These options maintain a level of formality while conveying the same meaning.

How does using "a hackneyed expression" affect the quality of writing?

Using "a hackneyed expression" can weaken writing by making it seem unoriginal and lacking in creativity. While not always incorrect, overuse can diminish the impact and engagement of the writing. Opting for fresh, thoughtful language can significantly improve the quality.