Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Clichés: Some clichés are idioms, but not all idioms are clichés.

 

Talking or writing without being overpowered by excessive clichés is a challenge. Soon after we find a new way to say something, we overwork it and create a new cliché. In writing, clichés can bore the reader. In conversation, they may give the impression that someone isn’t listening or someone cannot think of anything interesting to say. Overuse of any expression can become irritating to those receiving it.

Clichés are not entirely bad. They can be fun if they are expressions used within in a group such as a family or a working team. They can be inside jokes or special ways to convey feelings within a clan. Many clichés are idioms, and idioms are valuable tools to becoming comfortable with the English language. They help children learn to read and second-language learners learn to speak.

        We have a good show on tap.

        Once upon a time…

        Better late than never.

        Tomorrow is another day.

        It is what it is.

        Dumb as a doorknob.

        Dumb as a rock.

        A cat on a hot tin roof.

        Working like a dog.

        Eating like a pig.

        Cooking enough to feed an army.

        Live and let live.

        Out of sight, out of mind.

        Fresh as a daisy.

        The course of true love never runs smoothly.

        Happily ever after.

        She rolled her eyes.

        Mean as a junk yard dog.

        Live and learn. Die and forget it all.

        Enough is enough.

        That puts the lid on the jar.

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