CLICHES

 

Clichés

A cliché is an overused and worn-out expression used to convey a popular thought or idea.

Formal Definition

A cliché is a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought. (Oxford Dictionary)

Easy Examples of Clichés

—  The ball is in your court.

—  Think outside the box.

—  As useful as a lead balloon.

—  Every cloud has a silver lining.

Types of Cliches

There are various types of cliches. For example:

Proverbs
A proverb is a short, well-known saying that states a general truth or a piece of advice. For example:

—  A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

—  A leopard cannot change its spots.

Idioms
An idiom is commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its word. For example:

—  I am over the moon.

—  You have a Sword of Damocles hanging over you.

—  I'll take any port in a storm.

Catchphrases
A catchphrase is a well-known term, especially one that is associated with a particular famous person. For example:

—  "Come on down!" (The Price Is Right)

—  "Yabba dabba doo!" (Fred Flintstone)

—  "You're fired!" (Donald Trump or Alan Sugar from The Apprentice)

Similes
A simile is a figure of speech which compares one thing with another to create an analogy. For example:

—  This is about as much use as a chocolate teapot.

—  He drinks like a fish.

 

Author:

Dr L Suresh,

Assistant Professor of English,

Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science,

Coimbatore - 641020.

Contact Number: 9944138137

Mail ID: sureshenglit@rmv.ac.in