Cancel those Cringy Clichés!

In today’s high-stakes, hyper-digital business world, clear and engaging communication is essential. But when communication is riddled with clichés and overused buzzwords, messages lose their power and become little more than corporate filler. To truly inspire and persuade people, it’s crucial to ditch the jargon and use authentic, precise language.

Over-reliance on clichés makes communication feel shallow and predictable, like a recycled memo that’s easy to overlook. How many times have we heard about “challenges” or been reassured that “we’re in this together,” and we know that they are nothing more than empty promises and virtue signalling? These phrases, which once may have held some value, now feel insincere and even patronizing.

Clichés are often used because they’re quick and convenient ways to express a common idea. They allow speakers to convey an idea without investing much thought. This is especially appealing in fast-paced environments or politics.

Additionally, they can serve as social signals, allowing individuals to appear aligned with a group even if their connection is superficial. Derek Zoolander’s oblivious parroting of “So hot right now” in the movie Zoolander is a perfect example of how leaning on industry jargon to fit in can backfire, ultimately showcasing a lack of true understanding.

Lastly, clichés can also be used to fill pauses in conversation or to avoid awkward silence.

In 1987's "Planes, Trains and Automobiles", Steve Martin and John Candy's characters, Neal Page and Del Griffith, are forced to share a bed. During the night, they wake up in an awkward position: Neal’s hand is nestled between "the pillows", but as they slowly realize, those aren’t pillows. Neal's hand is actually tucked into Del’s backside. Horrified, they jump out of bed and shake off the awkwardness by switching the topic to a more "manly" sport cliche; Did you see that Bears game? Hell of a game...Hell of a game!

Why Clichés Hurt Communication

1. Diminished Impact: When everyone’s “thinking outside the box,” whose left to think about the inside of the box? Within the norm or the framework so we can compare solutions? The box starts to become a very small space. Repetition drains powerful phrases of their original punch, reducing them to filler that’s easy to ignore.

2. Lack of Originality: Clichés suggest laziness. They make speakers sound as if they’re on autopilot, recycling old ideas instead of contributing anything new.

3. Poor Impression: Relying on clichés can make one appear less informed, like someone who skimmed the highlights instead of truly engaging with the material.

4. Loss of Meaning: Sometimes, even the speaker doesn’t fully understand what they’re saying. Phrases like “paradigm shift” or “synergy” can feel hollow if not supported by clear, specific meaning and conviction.

Alternatives to some Common Clichés

To stand out, avoid the phrases that everyone else is using. Here’s a short list of overused phrases and more genuine alternatives that tend to focus on what you actually mean:

1. “Think outside the box” - Try "let's consider unconventional options," "Explore new perspectives," and “explore creative solutions”.
2. “Synergy” - If you mean collaboration or teamwork, say so.
3. “Paradigm shift” - Unless it’s a true transformation, try “new approach.”
4. “Low-hanging fruit” - Instead of implying minimum effort, focus on "quick or easy wins".
5. “Leverage” - Often, the more applicable terms are simply to “use” or “apply”.
6. “Thoughts and prayers” – In times of crisis, more specific language feels more sincere: “Our hearts go out to those affected,” for instance.
7. "At the end of the day" - Try "Ultimately," "In the end," or "When all is said and done".
8. "Hit the ground running" - You actually mean "Get a head start," or "Begin fully prepared."
9. "Touch base"- You tend to want to really just "Catch up," or "Have a quick update."
10. "It is what it is" - Use "That's the current situation," or "That’s the reality we’re working with," or "We’ll make the best of this."

How to Communicate Clearly and Avoid Clichés

Replacing stale language with precise, fresh words can strengthen your message. Here are some practical strategies to keep communication impactful:

1. Be Intentional with Language: If a phrase sounds overly familiar, it likely is. Try to express your ideas in fresh terms.

2. Provide Specifics: Instead of a vague “game-changer,” explain what’s new or impactful. Specifics are memorable and help audiences grasp the real significance of your message.

3. Read Aloud: Hearing your words often reveals fluff that can be cut or rephrased.

4. Seek Feedback: A colleague’s perspective can catch stale language you might miss.

5. Use Clear, Concise Language: Your audience will appreciate straightforward words over convoluted jargon.

By trading clichés for straightforward, authentic language, you not only sharpen your message by clearly and quickly getting to the point but create a lasting impact.

Next time you’re tempted to “circle back” or “leverage synergies,” I hope you will think about this article and simply say what you mean.