Trope, Cliche, Platitude: What's The Difference?

We've all heard them – tropes, clichés, and platitudes. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ? Often used interchangeably, these terms each carry a specific nuance in writing and communication.

Let's break down each one:

Trope

A trope is a commonly used theme, device, or situation in literature, film, and other forms of storytelling. Tropes aren't inherently bad; they're building blocks that audiences recognize and understand. Think of the 'chosen one' in fantasy or the 'reluctant hero' in action movies. These familiar patterns provide a shorthand, allowing creators to quickly establish characters and scenarios.

• Examples:

  • The hero's journey
  • Love at first sight
  • The damsel in distress

When tropes are used skillfully, they can be incredibly effective. However, overusing or subverting them poorly can lead to predictable and uninspired stories.

Cliche

A cliché is an overused trope or expression that has lost its original impact. It's become stale and predictable due to excessive repetition. Clichés often signal a lack of originality and can weaken your writing. Examples include phrases like 'thinking outside the box' or 'at the end of the day.'

• Examples:
  • "All that glitters is not gold."
  • "Time heals all wounds."
  • "Actions speak louder than words."

While clichés were once fresh and insightful, their overuse has rendered them trite. Effective writing avoids clichés in favor of more original and impactful language.

Platitude

A platitude is a statement that is morally instructive but has become meaningless through overuse. It's a flat, empty remark that offers little to no comfort or insight. Platitudes often appear in situations where people are trying to offer support but lack genuine empathy or understanding. Think of saying "everything happens for a reason" to someone who has just experienced a loss.

• Examples:
  • "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade."
  • "It is what it is."
  • "Follow your dreams."

Platitudes often feel dismissive and insincere. While they may be intended to offer comfort, they often minimize the complexity of a situation and invalidate the other person's feelings.

Why It Matters

Understanding the difference between a trope, a cliché, and a platitude can significantly improve your communication and creative writing. While tropes can be useful tools, clichés and platitudes should generally be avoided. Strive for originality, authenticity, and meaningful expression in your work. By being mindful of these distinctions, you can craft narratives and conversations that resonate with your audience and leave a lasting impression. Use these tips to enrich your writing:

• Be Original: Instead of relying on overused phrases, try to express your ideas in fresh, new ways.
• Show, Don't Tell: Rather than stating the obvious, use vivid language and imagery to create a more immersive experience for your reader.
• Know Your Audience: Be aware of the context in which you're communicating and tailor your language accordingly.

By mastering these nuances, you can elevate your writing and communication skills, ensuring that your message is both impactful and memorable. If you would like to improve your business writing, consider these business writing tips to communicate effectively and professionally.