HACKNEYED PHRASE Meaning and
Definition
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A hackneyed phrase is an expression or saying that has become overused, trite, or clichéd, to the point where it has lost its original impact or meaning. It refers to a term, phrase, or idea that has been excessively repeated or employed, lacking freshness or creativity. Hackneyed phrases are often considered dull, unimaginative, and lacking in originality.
These phrases are often found in various forms of communication, such as literature, speeches, advertising, or daily conversations. They have become so familiar and widely used that they no longer evoke any genuine emotion or interest in the listener or reader. Examples of hackneyed phrases can include "think outside the box," "time will tell," "all that glitters is not gold," or "at the end of the day."
The term "hackneyed" itself is derived from "hackney," which originally referred to a horse or carriage hired for ordinary or route journeys. Over time, it came to represent something that is ordinary, commonplace, or lacking in originality. Thus, a hackneyed phrase reflects this lack of innovation or freshness in language or thought.
In conclusion, a hackneyed phrase is an overused expression that has lost its originality and meaning due to excessive repetition. It no longer holds any impact or interest to the listener or reader, and is considered unoriginal and clichéd.
Common Misspellings for HACKNEYED PHRASE
- gackneyed phrase
- backneyed phrase
- nackneyed phrase
- jackneyed phrase
- uackneyed phrase
- yackneyed phrase
- hzckneyed phrase
- hsckneyed phrase
- hwckneyed phrase
- hqckneyed phrase
- haxkneyed phrase
- havkneyed phrase
- hafkneyed phrase
- hadkneyed phrase
- hacjneyed phrase
- hacmneyed phrase
- haclneyed phrase
- haconeyed phrase
- hacineyed phrase
- hackbeyed phrase
Etymology of HACKNEYED PHRASE
The word "hackneyed" comes from the term "hackney", which originally referred to a horse used for hire. The term "hackney" dates back to the 14th century and was used specifically to refer to a horse suitable for ordinary riding or driving. Over time, "hackney" also became associated with a horse that was overused, worn-out, and lacked freshness or vigor.
In the early 18th century, the term "hackneyed" began to be used figuratively to describe something that had become trite, boring, or uninteresting due to overuse. It evolved to encompass phrases, expressions, or ideas that had lost their originality and impact.
Therefore, the phrase "hackneyed phrase" is a result of combining the term "hackneyed" with the word "phrase", emphasizing the overused and unoriginal nature of certain idiomatic expressions or clichés.
