tired phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tired phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a phrase that has become overused or clichéd, losing its original impact or meaning. Example: "The expression 'time heals all wounds' has become a tired phrase in discussions about grief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

One of the goals of this course is to get students away from the tired phrase that technology changes everything.

Princeton University

Would O'Connor be likely to remind a poet, after invoking the tired phrase "a marriage of true minds," that this is "to again quote" Shakespeare?

The New York Times - Books

That's a tired phrase, the destruction of the Earth, but translate it into the face of a starving child and a barren field – and then multiply that a few million times.

The Guardian - Opinion

The president did, however, use that tired phrase in a Newsweek interview this month — another mistake given the unthinkable consequences of a third U.S. war front in the Muslim world.

The New York Times

8. GOODBYE, FIRST LOVE (Mia Hansen-Love) The tired phrase "coming-of-age story" hardly does justice to this sensitive, observant chronicle of a young woman's discovery of passion, disappointment and her own resourcefulness as she moves from adolescence into her early 20s.

The New York Times

Who will guard the guardians, to borrow a tired phrase.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Maybe science has started to catch up with these tired phrases.

The Washington Post

His rough talk-singing is just studied enough to free him from tired phrasing and let him think on his feet.

The New York Times

Hers is the kind of voice that can breathe life back into tired phrases: "And I knew, and I knew it was you," she repeats in It Was You, making the sentiment as lush and enveloping as the organ chirrups and intuitive brass playing that surrounds it.

The Guardian - Music

Objective statements are also famous for tired phrases, such as "seeking a fast-growing and dynamic organization" or "seeking stimulating work where I can put my creative abilities and interpersonal skills to good use".

Science Magazine

Avoid tired phrases like "I want to tell you a little story" or "the moral here is" You'll sap power from the narrative.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tired phrase" when you want to acknowledge that an expression lacks originality, but avoid it if your goal is to be more direct with something like “cliche”.

Common error

Avoid using "tired phrase" too frequently in your writing, as it can ironically become a "tired phrase" itself. Try to find more precise and descriptive ways to express your criticism of overused language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tired phrase" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a phrase that has become stale or overused through repetition. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

21%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tired phrase" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an overused or clichéd expression. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media, and academic writing. While the phrase is acceptable, writers should be mindful of overusing it. Consider alternatives like "overused expression" or "clichéd phrase" to add originality and precision to your writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is well-established and understood, but effective writing often requires a fresh perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overused expression

Focuses on the overuse of the expression.

clichéd phrase

Highlights the lack of originality and predictability.

hackneyed saying

Emphasizes the staleness and triteness of the saying.

worn-out expression

Indicates that the expression has lost its impact through repeated use.

banal statement

Highlights the lack of depth or originality.

trite remark

Focuses on the remark's lack of freshness and originality.

stale idiom

Specifically refers to idioms that have lost their novelty.

commonplace expression

Indicates that the expression is ordinary and unremarkable.

unoriginal wording

Emphasizes the lack of inventiveness in the phrase.

predictable phraseology

Highlights the expected and uninspired nature of the language used.

FAQs

How can I identify a "tired phrase" in my writing?

A "tired phrase" is often a cliché or an expression that has lost its impact due to overuse. If you find yourself relying on expressions that feel unoriginal or predictable, they might be considered "tired phrases".

What are some alternatives to using a "tired phrase"?

Instead of using a "tired phrase", try to express the same idea in a more original and specific way. Use alternatives like "overused expression", "clichéd phrase", or "worn-out expression".

Is it always bad to use a "tired phrase"?

While it's generally better to avoid "tired phrases" in formal writing, they can sometimes be acceptable in informal contexts or when used intentionally for stylistic effect. However, be mindful of your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

How can I replace a "tired phrase" with something more effective?

Consider the original meaning of the "tired phrase" and try to express it in a fresh and unique way. Use vivid language, specific examples, and creative phrasing to make your writing more engaging and impactful.