The nation will celebrate “Cliché Day” on Friday, Nov. 3. It is a day set aside for Americans to reflect on those overused, predictable and sometimes eye-roll-inducing sayings and phrases that have become an everyday part of many of our conversations.
Clichés are often so predictable that you know they are coming. They are entertaining and enjoyable – and sometimes annoying. They are also often an effective way to open a conversation or bring humor to an interaction.
“Clichés are like old friends who always show up,” said one SFU student.
Clichés – whether they are found in plays, books, movies or everyday conversations – are sayings or ideas that have lost their original impact due to excessive use.
“You know what to expect and it can be quite amusing,” said another student.
So take a moment on Friday to reflect on the role of clichés in communication. Discover the fine line between their initial power and eventual overuse, and consider the importance of making wise choices with the words you use.