The word "hackneyed saying" refers to a phrase or expression that has been overused and has lost its original impact. It is spelled /hækniːd ˈseɪɪŋ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable rhymes with "back," and the second syllable is pronounced like "need." The stress falls on the first syllable. The "k" in "hackneyed" is silent, and the "e" is pronounced as a short "i." The "ey" diphthong in "hackneyed" is pronounced like "ay."
A hackneyed saying refers to an overused, clichéd, or trite phrase, idiom, or expression that has lost its originality, novelty, or impact due to excessive repetition. It is characterized by its lack of freshness or creativity, as it has become so commonplace that it no longer holds any significant meaning or power. Generally, hackneyed sayings are considered banal or unoriginal, as they fail to bring new or insightful perspectives to the subject matter they address.
These sayings often find their origins in general wisdom or popular culture, which can lead to their widespread overuse in conversations, writing, or any situation where expressions are exchanged. They are typically used to convey a commonly understood concept or sentiment, but due to their constant usage, they may come across as stale, predictable, or lacking depth.
The exploitation of hackneyed sayings can also result from people seeking an easy or convenient way to communicate, without putting much effort into finding truly original or profound words. Their prevalence can hinder meaningful and engaging discourse, as they tend to flatten the complexity of the subject matter at hand, reducing it to a banal catchphrase or a hollow phrase lacking emotional impact.
In summary, a hackneyed saying is a tired and overused expression that has lost its freshness, originality, and ability to engage or captivate an audience.
The word "hackneyed" comes from the verb "to hackney", which originally meant to put to everyday use or hire out. This verb is derived from the Middle English word "hackeneye", which referred to an ordinary horse that was available for hire. Over time, the term "hackney" evolved to also mean a horse or carriage for rent, as well as a derivative sense of something being common or trite.
The term "saying" stems from the Old English word "saga", which meant a speech or tale. It is related to the Old Norse word "saga", meaning a saga or story. This eventually led to the Middle English word "saiying", and later the modern English word "saying", which signifies a brief statement or proverb.
When combined, the term "hackneyed saying" represents a common or overused phrase that lacks originality.