Why We Need Clichés

 Clichés. Since they have such a negative connotation (hackneyed, overused), why then are they still so popular?

Orin Hargraves gave the question some thought and realized that clichés serve several purposes. Like keeping the conversation flowing (after all, how many of us can say something original on most topics anyway?!). Further, he says some clichés are actually useful since they have become a universally understood way of conveying something e.g. “On the other hand”. Even something as overused as “At the end of the day” serves a purpose:

“In speech it has pragmatic value in notifying listeners of a juncture: for example, that the speaker has uttered, or is about to utter, the gist of her argument, or that a contrasting idea is about to be presented.”

And then there is their use to new speakers of a language. Why?

“The trepid speaker, with the vastness of the English lexicon lapping at his feet, can take comfort by easily stepping on to one of these clumpy islands we call clichés with the knowledge that it is a place of safety. When you use a cliché there is little chance of being misunderstood, and at the same time you have made a declaration of unity with your audience, invoking an instantly recognised commonplace that puts you "on the same page" (if I may) with them.”

Ryan Cooper agrees. He cites this example of how one can “convey a crystal-clear thought even if the prose is riddled with clichés”!

“For example: “Upon deeper reflection, House Republicans' last-ditch effort to repeal ObamaCare was motivated by naked partisanship. The connection to the policy itself was tenuous at best.”

Besides, says Cooper, original (even great) writing does not mean the idea being conveyed is right or good. He quotes what Matt Yglesias said about Notes from Underground:

“Dostoevsky is also an illustration of the power of great writing to convey radically unsound or even totally nonsensical ideas.”

Hmmm…that’s food for thought, even if that’s a cliché too. Or did the cliché just prove my point?!