How to Avoid Clichés in Your Writing

Many writers don't realize how often clichés creep into their stories. Clichés are overused or tired expressions that don't add anything new or interesting to your writing.

Do you recognize any of these expressions?
• Leaps and bounds
• Nip in the bud
• Lock, stock and barrel
• Stick out like a sore thumb
• In the nick of time
• Writing on the wall
• Chomping at the bit
• Behind the eight ball
• Between a rock and a hard place
• Give the devil his due
• Hook, line and sinker

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Before including one of these common phrases in your story, ask yourself if there's a better alternative. Specific is always best - instead of "Jack finished his article in the nick of time," try "Jack finished his article seconds before the 7pm deadline." Describe why someone sticks out like a sore thumb - are they tall? Wearing unusual clothes? Acting strangely? This way your reader will understand that the character doesn't fit in without you having to resort to cliché.

2. Not all clichés are old maxims. Catchphrases and slogans used in advertising can be clichéd. So can outmoded street sayings, like "yo" or "whassup?" Avoid using lingo that might date your story, and use your imagination to come up with dialogue that fits your characters.

3. Sometimes plots or characters are clichéd. Have you read a story where twins fool people into thinking they're the same person? Or a romance is sealed at the prom? If you want to use one of these old plotlines, it's important to find a new spin. The same goes for clichéd characters, like the catty cheerleader or the airhead model. Use these stereotypes only if you can give them a twist.

4. Avoiding clichés doesn't require that you dig out the thesaurus every time you start a new paragraph. There's nothing wrong with "calling the kettle black." If a dog barks, it barks. It doesn't have to yip or "growl like the devil." Many writers make the mistake of padding their stories with unnecessary adjectives and adverbs, but word count is not nearly as important as clarity. Leave the vivid descriptions for parts of the story where they are truly needed.

5. Remember that your prose does not have to be boring or dull. The right adjectives and adverbs have an important place in your writing - keep them clear, fresh and distinctive, and your readers will thank you.