Don’t Be a Cliché

Be careful when using clichés in your written material. They can easily sound, well, cliché. Liven up your writing by using more original wording, simplifying it or even omitting it. Also, many people who have English as a second language are not familiar with the meaning of these sayings.

BEFORE: Though there was a lot hanging on this job interview, Mary was as cool as a cucumber.

AFTER: Though there was a lot hanging on this job interview, Mary exuded confidence and calm.

BEFORE: I’m fit as a fiddle.

AFTER: I’m healthy.

BEFORE: I can see the writing on the wall. I’m not going to get this promotion.

AFTER: I’m not going to get this promotion.

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