Cliché: GCSE English Definition

What is a cliché?

In GCSE English, a cliché is a turn of phrase or an idea that has been so overused that it loses impact and seems dull or unoriginal. You will have felt the uninspiring effect of clichés if you have ever heard of someone being “as good as gold” or a football match described as “a game of two halves”. 

Clichés can make writing feel tired and predictable so try to avoid clichés in your own writing.

Why do writers use clichés?

The best writers try not to use clichés because they can suggest laziness or a lack of imagination. Some writers like to surprise readers by overturning clichés. For example: a clichéd story opening might refer to a clock striking midnight to create a sense of mystery. Writer George Orwell engages the reader’s interest by describing the clocks as “striking thirteen” in his famous novel 1984. By changing just a single word, Orwell transforms our expectations.

Examples of cliché

“Not a red rose or a satin heart.
I give you an onion.”

In her poem Valentine, Carol Ann Duffy subverts clichéd romantic ideas (a red rose or satin heart) by presenting her beloved with the gift of an onion. 

“But love is blind”

In Shakespeare’s play, The Merchant of Venice, Jessica describes love using a phrase that is now a cliché because it is so commonly used. 

Revision resources to ace your exams

Learn how to analyse the use of cliché in literary texts and how to avoid using clichés in your own writing with our GCSE revision notes.

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes 

GCSE English Language Revision Notes

For more literary techniques, check out our list of 127 top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.