Dull as Dishwater Cliches

Most clichés begin life as clever expressions. But after much use, they lose a lot of their meaning. They sound tired and may imply the writer is tired too—too weary to think of an original way to say something.

Clichés have both a literal and a metaphorical meaning. Michael Robert Evans gives an example of the phrase, “He held on to the bitter end.” The metaphorical meaning is that “he held on as long as he could”, however the literal meaning is lost to most of us. The expression has maritime origins: The loop at the end of a rope is called the bit end, or the bitter end. Over time, the literal meaning of this phrase has gone, leaving an anaemic cliché.¹

Because clichés are often culturally specific, you also risk misunderstandings when you use them, especially in an international community. For example if I used “Darby and Joan” you’d likely not understand my meaning unless you’re from a Commonwealth country.² So considering your audience is important. If your writing is to be read by a multicultural audience, then caution is needed.

Stock modifiers also fit into this category of overused expressions. Examples are “jump to conclusions”, “unfailingly courteous”, or “visibly moved”. A good writer will think carefully before using combinations like these.

When you write, your first draft may contain many clichés. That’s okay, as long as you go back and edit to more clearly express exactly what you want to say.

Most commentators agree that clichés can be useful on occasion. The important thing to consider is this: Is there a better way to express this? 

1.Michael Robert Evans, The Layers of Magazine Editing (New York: Columbia University Press, 2004), 226-228.
2.“Darby and Joan” is a phrase for a happily married couple who lead a placid, uneventful life.