sound cliche

USAGE SUMMARY

"sound cliche" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are referring to an idea or statement that is familiar or overused. For example, "His apology sounded cliche - like something he had said a hundred times before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Because my job -- and this is going to sound cliche -- my job is to get those guys to do the things they don't want to do in order to achieve what it is we all said we want".

The New York Times - Sports

"This may sound cliche but I couldn't mean it more sincerely," said Costolo.

TechCrunch

"I don't want to sound cliche and say 'Electronic music was born in Chicago, it's in my blood,'" he says.

Vice

Which why even though it might sound cliche, it is worth it to visit archetypical places sometimes because they give you insight into the city's idiosyncrasies.

Huffington Post

I know that it will sound cliche for a convocation speaker to state that this particular group of graduates -- the class of fill-in-the-blank -- is at a crossroads.

Huffington Post

I know it can sound cliche for artists to say, but my art truly is my life...it is all I feel I should be doing and it documents my life, be it through things I experience first hand, or things I learn about that effect me.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We want to be with them through the twists and turns, so we don't want to be backing just a business…I know it sounds cliche".

TechCrunch

It sounds cliche, but small, dedicated, driven teams focused on these seemingly narrow challenges and opportunities are more likely to find the speck of white space to leverage current technologies and build incremental value for their users.

TechCrunch

It sounds cliche, but with a few startups listed above to validate the model, there couldn't be a better time to pick an unreasonably priced product, study its (in elasticity of demand, analyze its components and supply chain, and conceive of an entirely new brand — a reinvention, if you will — that simply follows the mantra, "a Warby Parker for ______," where almost anyone can fill in the blank.

TechCrunch

And I know that it sounds cliche, and I know saying it sounds cliche, sounds cliche.

Wikipedia

It sounds cliche, but when you win with guys, it really was an awesome group.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sound cliche", consider whether a more original expression could convey your meaning more effectively. Over-reliance on clichés can weaken your writing.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "sound cliche" within a single piece of writing. Instead, vary your language with synonyms or rephrase your ideas to provide a more nuanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sound cliche" primarily functions as a commentary, used to express that something is predictable, overused, or lacking in originality. Ludwig provides examples where the phrase is used to critique or dismiss statements as unoriginal.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sound cliche" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to describe something that is predictable, unoriginal, or overused. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable for use in written English, and the examples show it appears in news, media, and wiki contexts. Although its frequency is uncommon, understanding its function and purpose can help writers use it effectively to critique statements or express skepticism, provided they also explore more nuanced or original expressions where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seem hackneyed

Highlights that the phrase is unoriginal and overused.

resemble a tired trope

Draws a parallel to overused themes or devices.

feel trite

Emphasizes the staleness and overuse of the statement.

appear uninspired

Highlights the lack of creativity or originality.

lack originality

Focuses on the absence of uniqueness, a core element of something sounding cliché.

come across as stale

Implies a lack of freshness and originality in the expression.

ring hollow

This alternative suggests the statement lacks sincerity or depth, similar to something that sounds cliché.

resonate as formulaic

Suggests adherence to a standard, uninspired pattern.

strike as predictable

Focuses on the lack of surprise or novelty in the statement.

smack of commonplace

Indicates something is ordinary and unexceptional.

FAQs

How can I avoid statements that "sound cliche"?

To avoid sounding cliché, focus on specific details and personal experiences. Instead of general statements, provide concrete examples and unique perspectives. Using vivid language and avoiding overused phrases can make your writing more engaging.

What are some alternatives to saying something "sounds cliche"?

You can use alternatives like "ring hollow", "lack originality", or "feel trite" to express that something lacks originality or is overused.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "sound cliche"?

It's appropriate to use "sound cliche" when you want to point out that a statement or idea lacks originality and has been overused. Use it sparingly, as overuse of the phrase itself can also become cliché.

Is it better to say "sounds cliché" or "sound cliche"?

Both "sounds cliché" and "sound cliche" are grammatically acceptable. "Sounds cliché" is more common because "sounds" agrees with the singular subject (it/that). The bare infinitive "sound" might be more suitable depending on the nuances of a particular sentence.