trite phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

"trite phrase" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a phrase that is overused and lacks originality. An example is: "The phrase 'think outside the box' has become a trite phrase in business discussions." Alternative expressions include "cliché expression" and "hackneyed phrase."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Both of them — to use a trite phrase — seem burdened by the past.

The New Yorker

These relations are in reality, not just as a trite phrase, a potential "win-win situation".

The Guardian - Opinion

"A big theme of this hire is that there are parts of our operations that, to use a pretty trite phrase, need to be taken to the next level," Mr. Zuckerberg told The New York Times.

The New York Times

"A big theme of this hire is that there are parts of our operations that to use a pretty trite phrase, need to be taken to the next level," Mr. Zuckerberg said in an interview.

The New York Times - Tech

That trite phrase is accurate in an almost technical sense: Ms. Ramsay (who adapted Lionel Shriver's novel with Rory Stewart Kinnear) follows a kind of dream logic in telling a chronologically splintered story, weaving patterns of associated images and sensations into an intense and claustrophobic web of fear.

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But at other companies, they were an assemblage of trite phrases that impress neither senior managers nor low-level employees.

The New York Times

It is also weakened by trite phrasing ("unlike the samurai in his grandmother's tale, life wouldn't pass him by") and her eagerness to guide Hiroshi and Kenji safely through their many trials.

The New York Times - Books

It's just a collection of trite phrases about back roads and alcohol that data researchers have determined country consumers are used to hearing on the radio and are thus amenable to hearing again.

The Guardian - Music

This includes all cliche and trite phrases and platitudes.

Huffington Post

This is no time for trite phrases such as, "guns don't kill people, people kill people".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "trite phrase", consider the context and audience. If possible, replace it with a more specific and original description of why the phrase is ineffective.

Common error

Avoid using "trite phrase" too frequently in your writing. While it's a valid descriptor, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and uninspired. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trite phrase" functions primarily as a descriptor, specifically as an adjective modifying the noun "phrase". It signifies that the phrase being referred to is unoriginal and overused, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "trite phrase" is a commonly used descriptor indicating an overused and unoriginal expression, according to Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it's important to be mindful of the context and audience when using it, and to consider more specific alternatives when possible. The analysis reveals that while the phrase is generally acceptable, overuse can diminish its effectiveness, and its primary purpose is to critique expressions lacking freshness. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources, suggesting a neutral formality level.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clichéd expression

Replaces 'trite' with 'clichéd', emphasizing the lack of originality due to overuse.

overused expression

Directly points out that the expression has been used too much.

stale expression

Highlights that the expression is no longer fresh or interesting.

stock phrase

Implies that the phrase is standard and predictable, lacking freshness.

banal remark

Focuses on the remark being dull and lacking in originality, similar to 'trite'.

hackneyed saying

Highlights the overuse and staleness of the saying.

tired idiom

Suggests the idiom has lost its impact due to excessive use.

unoriginal statement

Emphasizes the lack of novelty or creativity in the statement.

platitude

Implies a statement that is morally instructive but is, in fact, meaningless, shallow, or dull.

commonplace utterance

Indicates that the utterance is ordinary and unremarkable.

FAQs

How can I identify a "trite phrase"?

A "trite phrase" is typically overused, lacks originality, and has lost its impact through repetition. It often feels predictable and uninspired.

What are some examples of "trite phrases" in everyday language?

Examples of "trite phrases" include "think outside the box", "at the end of the day", and "it is what it is". These have become so common that they often lack meaning or impact.

What can I say instead of "trite phrase"?

You can use alternatives like "clichéd expression", "banal remark", or "hackneyed saying" depending on the context.

Is it always wrong to use a "trite phrase"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes a "trite phrase" can be a convenient shorthand, but it's generally better to use more specific and original language to convey your meaning effectively.