a trite saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a trite saying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a phrase or expression that is overused and lacks originality or freshness. Example: "While the advice was well-intentioned, it ultimately turned out to be just a trite saying that offered no real guidance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a bit of a trite saying, attributed to coaches, motivational speakers and fortune cookie authors (by the way, whose idea was it for fortune cookies to replace predictions with treacly aphorisms from the "Successories" reject pile?).

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I know plenty of people who have either forgiven or chosen to ignore the unforgivable, unignorable faults of miscellaneous family members because "blood is thicker than water," "family comes first," and "insert third additional trite saying here".

Vice

"I thought it was very slick, very funny, but, to be honest, a little bit trite," says Shula Eriksson.

The Guardian

"It sounds trite," said John, a quiet 40-year-old, "but you've done something good for the day".

The Guardian

("Not art", said Anish Kapoor this year; "trite", said Turner prize-winner Mark Leckey).

The Guardian

"In the past Christian music has been very trite," said Stephen Christian, the singer in Anberlin.

The New York Times - Arts

7. 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over)', John Lennon, 1971 (US), 1972 (UK) "An unbeatable combination of sanctimonious, whiny, mawkish and trite," says Lynsey Hopkins.

Independent

"What I hear from students from all backgrounds is they want to make things better, they want to make the world better, even if that sounds trite," said Osama Abi-Mershed, director of the Center for Contemporary Arab Studies at Georgetown University.

The New York Times

"It is just not good enough to give a trite phrase saying we will learn lessons if you don't learn the lessons and if you don't make sure on a regular basis that the lessons have filtered down to your officers.

The Guardian

There's a trite old saying that goes something like, "When one door closes, a window opens".

Huffington Post

The trite saying is, it's never the right time, until it's too late.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a trite saying", consider whether a more original or specific expression would be more impactful. Overused phrases can weaken your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying heavily on "a trite saying" in your writing, as it can make your work seem uninspired and predictable. Strive for fresh language and unique perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trite saying" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or subject complement. It describes a particular type of statement or expression, indicating its lack of originality and overuse. Ludwig identifies it as being usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a trite saying" is a noun phrase used to describe an overused and unoriginal expression. While grammatically correct, its use can make writing seem uninspired. Ludwig confirms that it is usable in written English. Consider using more original language or specific examples to strengthen your writing. Common alternatives include "a cliché expression" and "a hackneyed phrase". The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cliché expression

Replaces "trite" with "cliché", emphasizing the overused and predictable nature of the saying.

a hackneyed phrase

Uses "hackneyed" to highlight the worn-out and unoriginal quality of the saying.

an overused expression

Directly indicates that the expression is used too frequently.

a stale remark

Suggests the saying has lost its impact and become uninteresting.

a worn-out cliché

Combines "worn-out" and "cliché" for a stronger emphasis on the lack of originality.

a commonplace saying

Indicates the saying is ordinary and unremarkable.

a banal statement

Replaces "saying" with "statement" and uses "banal" to describe its lack of originality.

an unoriginal phrase

Directly states that the phrase lacks originality.

a conventional expression

Highlights that the expression follows established norms and lacks novelty.

a platitude

Replaces the entire phrase with a single word that captures the essence of a trite saying: a meaningless, overused remark.

FAQs

What does "a trite saying" mean?

The phrase "a trite saying" refers to an expression that is overused and lacks originality, often losing its impact due to its frequent use.

What can I say instead of "a trite saying"?

You can use alternatives like "a cliché expression", "a hackneyed phrase", or "an overused expression" depending on the context.

How can I avoid using trite sayings in my writing?

Focus on expressing your ideas in your own words and strive for originality. Consider the specific context and choose language that is precise and impactful.

Is it always bad to use "a trite saying"?

While often best avoided, "a trite saying" can sometimes be effective if used intentionally to create a specific effect, such as irony or satire. However, use it sparingly.