Literary Term - Cliché

 

Literary Term

Cliché 

A cliché is a literary term that refers to an expression, idea, or element that has become overused to the point of losing its originality and effectiveness. Clichés are often phrases or themes that were once fresh and impactful but have been used so frequently that they have lost their power and become predictable.

Writers are generally encouraged to avoid clichés in their work, as they can make writing seem unoriginal or stale. Using fresh and unique language and ideas is considered more effective in creating engaging and memorable literary works. However, in some cases, writers may intentionally use clichés for humorous or satirical purposes.

 

Examples of Cliché in Everyday Speech

Time heals all wounds.

All is fair in love and war.

Don't judge a book by its cover.

Actions speak louder than words.

Every cloud has a silver lining.

The early bird catches the worm.

Better late than never.

You can't have your cake and eat it too.

Bite the bullet.

Out of the frying pan and into the fire.

It's raining cats and dogs.

All that glitters is not gold.

Read between the lines.

The ball is in your court.

There's no smoke without fire.

Actions speak louder than words.

The calm before the storm.

To kill two birds with one stone.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Don't count your chickens before they hatch.

These expressions might convey a certain meaning effectively, but their overuse has made them clichés, and using them sparingly in writing or conversation is often advised for more original and impactful communication.

 

Examples of Cliché in Literature

Clichés in literature can manifest as overused themes, characters, or expressions that have become predictable and lack originality. Authors strive to create unique and fresh works, so the use of clichés is generally discouraged. However, there are instances where writers may intentionally employ clichés for specific effects or to subvert expectations. Here are a few examples of clichés in literature:

 

Love Conquers All:

This cliché often involves a romantic plot where love overcomes seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Example: "Against all odds, their love conquered the challenges they faced, and they lived happily ever after."

 

The Hero's Journey:

The classic hero's journey, as outlined by Joseph Campbell, has become a common template in literature where a hero embarks on an adventure, faces challenges, and returns transformed.

Example: Many fantasy novels follow the hero's journey, with a young protagonist discovering their destiny and overcoming adversity.

 

The Chosen One:

A character, often unsuspecting or seemingly ordinary, is chosen for a special mission or destiny.

Example: "The prophecy foretold that she was the chosen one who would save the world from impending doom."

 

Villain Monologues:

A cliché where the villain reveals their evil plan or motivations in a lengthy monologue, providing the hero with an opportunity to thwart their schemes.

Example: "Before you defeat me, let me explain my master plan for world domination!"

 

The Misunderstood Outsider:

A character who is initially misunderstood or perceived negatively but eventually proves to be virtuous.

Example: "Despite his rough exterior, he was a misunderstood outsider with a heart of gold."

 

The Sacrificial Hero:

A character who willingly sacrifices themselves for the greater good.

Example: "In a final act of bravery, he sacrificed his life to save the others, leaving a lasting legacy."

 

While clichés can be found in literature, skilled writers often strive to subvert or reinvent these tropes to keep their work fresh and engaging.

 

Synonyms of Cliché

Synonyms for "cliché" include:

Platitude

Stereotype

Banality

Truism

Hackneyed expression

Commonplace

Proverb

Trite phrase

Slogan

Worn-out saying

Overused idea

Conventional wisdom

Old chestnut

Tired trope

Threadbare remark

Predictable remark

Formulaic expression

Routine observation

Hollow saying

Time-worn cliche

 

Examples of Cliché in Creative Writing

Clichés are often considered pitfalls in creative writing, as they can make the writing appear unoriginal or uninspired. However, there are instances where well-known phrases or expressions become clichés due to their widespread use.

 

"It was a dark and stormy night."

This line, famously used by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in his 1830 novel "Paul Clifford," has become a cliché opening for stories, often parodied for its melodramatic tone.

 

"Romeo and Juliet" Love Story:

The tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare has been retold and adapted so many times that certain elements, such as the idea of forbidden love, have become clichéd in modern literature.

 

"Once upon a time..."

The classic fairy tale beginning has been used extensively and has become a cliché, especially in more modern and unconventional storytelling.

 

"It's just a dream."

The resolution of a story being revealed as a dream is a twist that has been overused and is often considered a cliché in creative writing.

 

"He woke up to find it was all a dream."

Similar to the previous example, the twist of the entire narrative being a dream is widely recognized and can be seen as an unoriginal plot device.

 

"The hero with a tragic past."

Many stories feature a protagonist with a dark or tragic past that haunts them. While this can be an effective character element, its overuse has turned it into a cliché.

 

"Dead Man Walking":

This phrase, which originally referred to a condemned prisoner walking to their execution, has become a cliché used to describe someone facing inevitable failure or doom.

 

"It was all a misunderstanding."

Using misunderstandings as a central plot point or conflict in a story is a cliché that can make the narrative seem formulaic.

 

It's important for writers to be aware of these clichés and strive to use original and fresh language and ideas to create more engaging and memorable works. While clichés may sometimes serve a purpose, overreliance on them can detract from the overall quality of creative writing.

 

Writing Cliché

Writing clichés can refer to two different aspects:

 

Unintentional Use of Clichés:

This occurs when a writer uses common phrases, themes, or expressions without realizing their overuse or lack of originality. To avoid unintentional clichés, writers should be mindful of their language and strive for fresh and unique expressions. Reading widely and exposing oneself to diverse literature can help develop a more original writing style.

 

Intentional Use of Clichés:

Some writers intentionally incorporate clichés into their work for various reasons, such as humor, satire, or to subvert expectations. When used deliberately, clichés can add a layer of irony or commentary on the familiarity of certain ideas. However, even when using clichés intentionally, it's essential to do so with a purpose and an awareness of the effect on the reader.

 

Here are some tips on dealing with clichés in writing:

Be Mindful: Pay attention to your language and ideas, and be aware of any overused phrases or themes in your writing.

Revise and Edit: During the editing process, specifically look for clichés in your work. Replace them with more original expressions or rework the ideas to bring a fresh perspective.

Use Clichés Intentionally: If you choose to use a cliché, do so with a purpose. Consider how it contributes to your overall message or if it serves a specific literary or rhetorical function.

Subvert Expectations: If you find yourself using a cliché, consider how you might subvert it to surprise the reader. This can involve adding a twist or providing a unique perspective that challenges the typical interpretation of the cliché.

Read Widely: Exposure to a variety of literature can help you develop a broader vocabulary and a more original approach to storytelling. This can also make you more conscious of clichés and help you avoid them.

Ultimately, the goal is to create writing that is engaging, fresh, and memorable. Whether you're intentionally using clichés or actively avoiding them, being mindful of language and striving for originality will contribute to the overall quality of your writing.

 

Shakespeare and Cliches

William Shakespeare is often considered one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language, and his works have had a profound impact on literature. While Shakespeare's language is known for its richness and originality, some phrases from his works have become so widely used that they might be considered clichés today. It's important to note that these expressions were likely innovative and fresh when Shakespeare first used them, but their frequent use over the centuries has contributed to their becoming clichés.

 

"Break the ice" (from "The Taming of the Shrew"):

The expression "break the ice" is often attributed to Shakespeare, who used a similar phrase in "The Taming of the Shrew" when Tranio says, "If it be so, sir, that you are the man, must stead us all and me amongst the rest; and if you break the ice and do this feat, achieve the elder, set the younger free for our access, whose hap shall be to have her will, not to be patient."

 

"In a pickle" (from "The Tempest"):

The phrase "in a pickle" is found in Shakespeare's play "The Tempest" when Ariel says to Stephano, "I do beseech you, sir, have patience. Your wound will be looked to."

 

"Wild-goose chase" (from "Romeo and Juliet"):

The expression "wild-goose chase" is used in "Romeo and Juliet" when Mercutio says, "Nay, if our wits run the wild-goose chase, I am done, for thou hast more of the wild-goose in one of thy wits than, I am sure, I have in my whole five."

 

While these phrases have become somewhat clichéd in modern English, it's essential to recognize that Shakespeare's use of language was groundbreaking in his time. Many expressions attributed to him were original creations or popularized by his works. While we may consider them clichés today, their historical context within Shakespeare's plays is crucial for understanding their impact and significance.

 

Two Major Type of Cliches: Thought Terminating Cliches and Platitude

Both "thought-terminating clichés" and "platitudes" are types of clichés, but they serve different functions in language and communication.

 

Thought-Terminating Clichés:

A thought-terminating cliché is a phrase or expression that is used to dismiss or discourage further consideration or questioning. These clichés are often employed in situations where critical thinking or deeper analysis is unwelcome or discouraged. Their purpose is to stop or terminate further thought or inquiry.

 

Examples:

"It is what it is." This phrase is often used to suggest that a situation cannot be changed or analyzed further, and one should simply accept it without questioning.

 

"Just go with the flow." This cliché implies that one should conform to the current situation or circumstances without questioning or resisting.

 

Platitudes:

Platitudes are overused, trite statements that convey a general truth or wisdom but lack originality and depth. They are often used to offer advice or comfort but can be perceived as unhelpful due to their lack of specificity.

 

Examples:

"Everything happens for a reason." While this platitude is meant to provide comfort in difficult situations, it oversimplifies complex experiences and may not offer meaningful insight.

 

"Time heals all wounds." This platitude, meant to convey that emotional pain will diminish over time, is often criticized for its oversimplification of the healing process.

 

Thought-terminating clichés aim to shut down further analysis or questioning, while platitudes are well-worn statements that convey general truths but may lack depth or originality. Both types of clichés can be encountered in everyday communication and can impact the effectiveness of language, particularly in situations that require thoughtful consideration and nuanced expression.

 

Cliché in Sentences

 

Time heals all wounds, and she hoped that the pain would eventually fade away.

 

In the world of business, it's essential to think outside the box to stay ahead of the competition.

 

She was as busy as a bee, juggling work, family, and social commitments.

 

The new project was a double-edged sword; while it offered great opportunities, it also came with its own set of challenges.

 

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade—that's the philosophy he embraced during tough times.

 

The movie's plot was a classic case of love at first sight, with the two protagonists overcoming various obstacles to be together.

 

His argument was just a drop in the ocean of opinions presented during the debate.

 

Despite their differences, they decided to bury the hatchet and work together for the common good.

 

In the competitive world of sports, winning isn't everything; it's the only thing.

 

She felt like a fish out of water in the unfamiliar city, but eventually, she found her bearings.