What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cliched
Example
The movie was filled with cliched dialogue that we've heard a hundred times before. [cliched: adjective]
Example
Her writing style is often criticized for being cliched and lacking originality. [cliched: adjective]
hackneyed
Example
The speech was filled with hackneyed phrases that failed to inspire the audience. [hackneyed: adjective]
Example
His jokes were so hackneyed that nobody laughed anymore. [hackneyed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cliched is more commonly used than hackneyed in everyday language. Cliched is a versatile term that can be applied to various contexts, including literature, movies, and conversations. On the other hand, hackneyed is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations where the emphasis is on the worn-out nature of an idea or expression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cliched and hackneyed?
Both cliched and hackneyed are relatively informal words. They are commonly used in casual conversations, writing, and critiques to express dissatisfaction with repetitive or unoriginal content.
