Another cliché to add to the list

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Now that I have begun making a list of hated clichés, beginning with my previous post, I realized that I might as well keep adding to the list. Who knows? This list might turn into a useful reference for myself. But let me get on with it…

Today’s entry on my list of clichés is a single adjective: radical. This term no longer denotes or connotes the left-wing political activists of the 1960’s. It now actually is frequently used in conjunction with our previously mentioned cliché, cutting edge.

The two clichés work together in my mind to sequester the person or idea or object from the people and things that I give serious thought to. That which is radical or cutting edge is bound to be a waste of my time and thought.

A radical change is usually not so very radical, because at this point in our culture, very few ideas or things are actually new but are simply old ideas tricked out in new packages.

Since both clichés are so frequently used together now, it’s easy for me now to see them as warning signs, and to avoid that which they’re describing completely.

5 thoughts on “Another cliché to add to the list”

  2. That’s a good one. It was not even on my radar until now, but it has definite possibilities.

  4. Patti, one of my favorite cliches to hate is “due diligence”, while at one time might have been a good expression, it’s been overused and now only congers up mediocrity.

  5. That’s a good idea Allison. I will work on that. Maybe I should make a comprehensive list of these things.

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