overused expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overused expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a phrase or saying that has been used so frequently that it has lost its original impact or meaning. Example: "The phrase 'think outside the box' has become an overused expression in corporate culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Frederick Forsyth "Broke the mould" is an overused expression but sometimes it is absolutely fitting.

The Guardian - Books

"I know it's an overused expression, but we're genuinely taking nothing for granted.

The Guardian

I suggest that if she really wants to do something in the service of relevant criticism and eliminate an overused expression that says absolutely nothing, go after "postmodern".

The New York Times

Evaluators often compliment a hitter by saying the ball sounds different coming off his bat, and Melvin apologized for the overused expression.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

And if you're concerned that you may be articulating your thoughts in too original or vivid a manner, you may want to seek the assistance of the www.westegg.com/cliche, which indexes more than three thousand overused expressions and even includes what may be the world's only cliché search engine.

The New Yorker

As a child, I regularly heard him say such things as "ignorance is bliss," "laughter is the best medicine" and "first things first," and swore I would never use such trite and overused expressions.

Huffington Post

Slang has a unique power of connecting people, especially minority communities, and thus is more valuable than other overused expressions, so it's peculiar that TIME would highlight it so pointedly.

Huffington Post

The word sarcasm has appeared in 672 New York Times articles in the past year, including on Oct. 2 in "The 'R' Word: Really, Really Overused" by Neil Genzlinger: "Really?" was once an expression of wonderment that also acknowledged a gap in the user's knowledge.

The New York Times

If you're a woman then the chances are you will be familiar with the expression, 'Having it all.' It's rather an overused phrase to describe the push and pull of family life and the pursuit of "balance".

Huffington Post

Although some who recalled the posters expressed concern that they were inaccurate and overused.

BMC Public Health

Overused muscles malfunction.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing an expression as an "overused expression", provide a specific example to illustrate your point. This adds credibility and clarity to your critique.

Common error

Avoid using "overused expression" as a reflexive critique. Ensure that the expression you're labeling as such truly warrants the description, and that your analysis adds value beyond simply pointing out its frequency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overused expression" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "overused" modifies the noun "expression". It typically acts as a subject complement or an object in a sentence, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overused expression" is a phrase used to describe sayings or terms that have lost their impact through excessive use. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides examples primarily from news and media sources. When using this phrase, ensure you're adding value to the critique by providing context and specific examples. Alternatives include "clichéd phrase", "trite saying", and "hackneyed term". Avoid reflexively labeling phrases as "overused expression" without proper justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Clichéd phrase

Emphasizes the lack of originality and predictability of the expression.

Trite saying

Highlights the banality and lack of freshness in the expression.

Hackneyed term

Focuses on the worn-out and stale nature of the term.

Time-worn phrase

Highlights the expression's long history of usage and resulting staleness.

Stale expression

Emphasizes the lack of impact and freshness due to overuse.

Banal saying

Highlights the commonplace and uninspired nature of the expression.

Commonplace phrase

Focuses on the expression's widespread and unremarkable nature.

Shopworn expression

Implies the expression has been used so much it's lost its value.

Threadbare saying

Suggests the expression is worn out and lacking substance.

Stock phrase

Indicates that the expression is a standard and unoriginal choice.

FAQs

How can I identify an "overused expression"?

An "overused expression" is often a phrase that was once clever or insightful but has lost its impact through repeated and unoriginal use. It often appears in various contexts, sometimes inappropriately, losing its original meaning.

What are some alternatives to calling something an "overused expression"?

You can use alternatives such as "clichéd phrase", "trite saying", or "hackneyed term" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always wrong to use an "overused expression"?

Not necessarily. While avoiding "overused expressions" can make your writing more original, sometimes they are the most concise or appropriate way to express a particular idea. Context matters.

How does an expression become "overused"?

An expression becomes "overused" through constant repetition in various forms of communication. This frequent use dilutes its original impact and can make it seem uninspired or predictable.