Cliché

Definition

A cliché is an overused expression or idea that has lost its originality and impact due to excessive repetition. In writing, clichés can weaken the narrative, making it feel predictable and uninspired. Effective writing seeks to avoid clichés in favor of fresh, original language that captures the audience's attention and evokes genuine emotion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clichés can manifest as phrases, plot devices, or character types that are so familiar they evoke little emotional response from the audience.
2. Using clichés in loglines or synopses can signal to producers or readers that the story lacks creativity and may not stand out in a competitive market.
3. To avoid clichés, writers should strive for specificity and originality, crafting unique language and situations that resonate on a deeper level.
4. Writers can identify clichés by reflecting on common expressions or scenarios within their genre and seeking alternative approaches.
5. Despite being often criticized, some clichés may serve a purpose in writing if used sparingly and with awareness of their impact.

Review Questions

• How does the use of clichés in writing affect the audience's engagement with a story?
  • Clichés can diminish audience engagement because they create a sense of predictability and lack of originality. When audiences encounter familiar phrases or predictable plot devices, they may feel less invested in the story as it fails to surprise or evoke genuine emotion. Fresh and original writing captivates audiences, drawing them into the narrative with unique perspectives and experiences.
• In what ways can avoiding clichés enhance the effectiveness of loglines and synopses?
  • Avoiding clichés in loglines and synopses allows writers to present their stories more compellingly, showcasing their unique voice and concepts. A well-crafted logline that steers clear of cliché phrases grabs attention by highlighting fresh angles or intriguing conflicts, making it more appealing to producers and readers. This originality sets the groundwork for stronger storytelling, creating a clearer impression of what makes the project distinct.
• Evaluate the balance between using familiar elements in storytelling versus relying on clichés. How can writers navigate this tension?
  • Writers need to find a balance between incorporating familiar elements that resonate with audiences and avoiding clichés that diminish originality. Familiar themes or archetypes can serve as a foundation for storytelling, allowing readers to connect quickly. However, writers should seek to twist these elements or combine them in novel ways to maintain freshness. By infusing unique perspectives or unexpected turns into familiar narratives, writers can effectively engage their audience while steering clear of predictable traps.

Related terms

Stereotype: A widely held but oversimplified and generalized belief about a particular group of people or things, often leading to clichés in character development.

Trope: A common theme or device used in storytelling that can become cliché if overused or relied upon too heavily.

Originality: The quality of being novel and unique in thought or expression, which is essential for avoiding clichés and engaging an audience.