Trite Expressions Worksheet 1

            A trite expression, or a cliché, is a phrase or old saying that is used all too often in writing.  These expressions are broad, generic, and have usually been heard so many times that the brain automatically turns off when it registers them.  In order to write more vital and exciting essays, it is best to avoid these expressions, as they will only detract from the power of the essay.  In the following exercise, find the trite expression in each sentence, and try to think of a way to rephrase it.   

  1. Sadder but wiser, Ellen repaid the borrowed money.
  2. She had learned her lesson the hard way.
  3. From that day forward she would save for the finer things in life.
  4. At that point, her money had disappeared at the drop of a hat.
  5. The whole situation was rotten to the core.
  6. Roger spotted the mistake as quick as a wink.
  7. Instead of blushing, she turned as white as snow.
  8. Her little brother was as destructive as a bull in a china shop.
  9. His awful reputation spread like wildfire.
  10. It was high time he went to commune with nature and to do his own thing.
  11. Frank was fed up with the rat race.
  12. At the crack of dawn he left, lost in thought about Mother Nature.
  13. He was not afraid of living alone in the wilderness because he was as brave as a lion.
  14. Frank was not only courageous, but he was also as sly as a fox.
  15. Furthermore, he could run like a deer and swim like a fish.
  16. Unfortunately, he also drank like a fish!
  17. The combination of drinking, swimming, and more drinking sent poor Frank to a watery grave.
  18. That, in a nutshell, is the sad but true story of the late, great Frank Faintheart.
  19. History tells us that such men are often gone but not forgotten.
  20. If you hurry, we can get this show on the road.

 

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This page last updated on 07/19/2004