Basic Details
Word: Clich
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: An overused phrase or idea that has lost its originality or impact due to frequent use.
Synonyms: Stereotype, platitude, banality
Antonyms: Originality, innovation, novelty
Idioms and Phrases
- A walking clich: Someone who behaves in a predictable, stereotypical way. Example: "He's such a walking clich with his leather jacket and motorcycle."
- Fall into clich: To use unoriginal or overused expressions. Example: "Her speech started strong but eventually fell into clich."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Saying "time heals all wounds" is a common clich used in difficult situations.
Example 2: The movie was filled with action clichs and predictable plot twists.
Example 3: He avoids using clichs in his writing to keep his stories fresh and engaging.
Fun Fact
The word "clich" comes from French printing jargon. It referred to a printing plate used to reproduce phrases repeatedly - much like how a clich is a repeated idea or phrase.
Famous Quote
"Avoid clichs like the plague - they're old hat." - William Safire
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "clich" mean?
a) A scientific discovery
b) A fresh idea
c) An overused phrase or idea
d) A musical instrument
Answer: c) An overused phrase or idea
2. Which of these is a synonym of "clich"?
a) Innovation
b) Novelty
c) Banality
d) Creativity
Answer: c) Banality
3. Which is an antonym of "clich"?
a) Platitude
b) Stereotype
c) Originality
d) Redundancy
Answer: c) Originality
4. Which sentence uses "clich" correctly?
a) The taste was very clich and spicy.
b) His speech was inspiring and full of clichs.
c) She bought a clich at the market.
d) We watched a clich in the sky.
Answer: b) His speech was inspiring and full of clichs.
5. What does the phrase "a walking clich" mean?
a) A person who walks quickly
b) Someone with unique style
c) A person who acts in a stereotypical way
d) A person who avoids common sayings
Answer: c) A person who acts in a stereotypical way
