Avoiding Clichés
Rock Valley College Writing Center
ERC 2402 815.921.3327
Avoiding Clichés
Created by Barbara Mugavero
Definition
A cliché is an old, overused expression. It adds nothing fresh or creative to one’s
writing.
Application
Delete clichés from your writing and replace them with simpler (and perhaps
more accurate) wording. Make up your own unique comparisons to enliven
your writing, but use them sparingly.
Examples & Strategies
1. To make a long story short, he gathered his materials and left.
Strategy: Replace the cliché with simpler wording.
Finally, he gathered his materials and left.
2. When writing, avoid clichés like the plague.
Strategy: Replace the cliché with simpler wording.
When writing, avoid clichés in all situations.
3. The factory was as hot as Hades inside.
Strategy: Replace the cliché with simpler, more accurate wording.
The factory was 115˚ Fahrenheit inside.
4. Their personalities mixed like oil and water.
Strategy: Make up your own unique comparison.
She was a window flower, and he was a cold winter wind.
Writing Center Handout
Page 2 of 2
Avoiding Clichés.docx
5. Susan hit the nail on the head when she suggested upgrading the computer
software.
Strategy: Replace the cliché with simpler wording.
Susan came up with the perfect solution when she suggested upgrading the
computer software.