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Lacking in originality or freshness; overused.
synonyms:tritestale
The word 'hackneyed' comes from the noun 'hackney', which refers to a horse that is used for ordinary riding, and by extension, a person who is hired for work. It evolved in the 17th century to describe something that is so commonplace it has lost its value.
Commonly used in everyday language, particularly in literary and artistic contexts to critique overused phrases or concepts.
While 'hackneyed' is not used in casual conversation, it is frequently encountered in literary analysis, critiques, and discussions about creativity.
The plot of the movie was so hackneyed that I could predict every twist before it happened.
Despite his talent, his use of hackneyed phrases made his poetry feel uninspired.
The marketing campaign was filled with hackneyed slogans that failed to capture the audience's attention.
The term 'hackneyed' is a fun way to describe ideas or expressions that have become too familiar and thus lost their impact. It originated from the word for a common horse, illustrating how something can become worn out through overuse. In today's world, it serves as a gentle reminder to keep our language and ideas fresh and engaging. So, next time you encounter a cliché, you might just call it hackneyed!