A cliché or cliche is an expression, idea or element of an artistic work….which has become overused to the point of losing its original meaning or effect….even to the point of being trite or irritating….especially when at some earlier time it was considered meaningful or novel.
In phraseology, the term has taken on a more technical meaning….referring to an expression imposed by conventionalized linguistic usage. The term is frequently used in modern culture for an action or idea that is expected or predictable…..and based on a prior event…..as “clichés” may or may not be true. Some are stereotypes, but some are simply truisms and facts. Clichés often are employed for comic effect, typically in fiction.
A cliché is often a vivid depiction of an abstraction that relies upon analogy or exaggeration for effect….which is often drawn from everyday experience. Used sparingly, it may succeed, but the use of a cliché in writing, speech or argument is generally considered a mark of inexperience or a lack of originality…..but not so much in Major League Baseball….as this wonderful clip from The Unofficial Baseball Handbook so aptly points out…..cuz baseball is literally full of cliches…..with some being good and some not so good….as seen in this video herewith.
