hackneyed phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hackneyed phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe an expression or idea that has become overused and lacks originality. Example: "The phrase 'time heals all wounds' is a hackneyed phrase that many people find clichéd and unhelpful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

In a serious context, the colloquial (and hackneyed) phrase was jarring.

The New York Times

But he has discovered that - in that hackneyed phrase - he wants "to contribute".

Independent

The hackneyed phrase at the end repeats what is in the quote.

The New York Times

Vast majority is an imprecise and hackneyed phrase, but presumably it is above 75percentt.

The Washington Post

Yes, it's a hackneyed phrase, but politics is the art of the possible.

The New York Times

These call for efforts to win "hearts and minds", in that hackneyed phrase.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Stamp out hackneyed phrases with an online cliché finder.

The New Yorker

He quoted founding documents – nothing new, just the most hackneyed phrases.

The Guardian - Opinion

And he became one of the few big-game voices who could handle football, tennis and golf without egotism, shtick, hackneyed phrases or trademark calls.

The New York Times - Sports

"Beyond the nationalist pretext and the horror of ethnic cleansing, beyond the grandiloquent rhetoric and the hackneyed phrases he used, the search for power is what motivated Slobodan Milosevic".

The New York Times

When greeting a customer, avoid hackneyed phrases like, "May I help you?" You might try keeping in mind a picture of meeting someone you don't know at a wedding reception and starting a conversation.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consciously avoid using "hackneyed phrases" to maintain originality and engage your audience. Opt for fresh, creative language that conveys your message effectively.

Common error

Don't rely on "hackneyed phrases" as a crutch in your writing. While they might seem convenient, they often weaken your message and make your writing sound uninspired. Strive for originality.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the "hackneyed phrase" is as a noun phrase, where "hackneyed" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "phrase". This describes a particular type of phrase characterized by its overuse and lack of originality. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The "hackneyed phrase" refers to an overused expression that has lost its impact. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media. To maintain writing originality, avoid "hackneyed phrases" and opt for fresher language. Common errors include relying on these phrases, which can weaken writing. Alternatives like "trite expression" or "overused saying" can be employed depending on context. By recognizing and consciously avoiding "hackneyed phrases", writers can improve the quality and impact of their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trite expression

Focuses on the lack of freshness and originality in the expression.

overused saying

Emphasizes the excessive use of the saying, leading to a loss of impact.

clichéd expression

Highlights the expression's status as a cliché, lacking originality.

banal statement

Indicates the statement is dull and uninspired due to overuse.

commonplace remark

Stresses the ordinariness and lack of novelty in the remark.

stale idiom

Focuses on the idiom's age and lack of relevance or impact.

worn-out trope

Highlights the trope's overuse and predictability.

tired cliché

Emphasizes the weariness and lack of impact due to overuse.

unoriginal expression

Directly points out the lack of originality in the expression.

overfamiliar term

Indicates that the term has become too well-known and has lost its impact.

FAQs

What does "hackneyed phrase" mean?

A "hackneyed phrase" is a phrase or expression that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning or impact, often becoming cliché.

How can I avoid using a "hackneyed phrase" in my writing?

To avoid using a "hackneyed phrase", try to express your ideas in a more original and creative way. Consider using specific examples or vivid descriptions to convey your message effectively.

What are some examples of a "hackneyed phrase"?

Examples of "hackneyed phrases" include "thinking outside the box", "at the end of the day", and "a vast majority". These phrases are so commonly used that they often lack impact.

What can I say instead of "hackneyed phrase"?

You can use alternatives like "trite expression", "overused saying", or "clichéd expression" depending on the context.