This is the third post in a series talking about the importance of choosing the right word when communicating. In business, using jargon like gobbledygook, clichés, colloquialisms, euphemisms, archaic words and wordiness can make sure your message is ‘lost in translation’.
Clichés are expressions that are so worn out that they almost have no meaning. Although there is nothing wrong with the occasional cliché that saves you time and may clearly communicate your ideas, overuse can make your communication have less meaning and be very predictable and boring.
So ‘in a nutshell’, if you can think of a fresher and more vivid word or expression, use it. Be conscious of your use of clichés, and ask yourself whether the cliché is effective or not.
Again, politicians are experts at clichés which makes them say something, without really committing to anything. Do you use any of these common clichés that are used in business?
- State of the art
- Cutting edge
- Moving forward
- Viable alternative
- Ongoing dialogue
- Circumstances beyond my control
- Ample opportunity
- With all due respect
- A whole new ball game
I’d love to hear any other common clichés you hear in your business.
Our next post will discuss using colloquialisms.
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