Hackneyed

Adjective

Definition: (of a phrase or idea) having been overused; unoriginal and trite.

Synonyms: Clichéd, Overused, Trite, Unoriginal, Stale

Antonyms: Fresh, Original, Innovative

Examples:
  • The speech was filled with hackneyed phrases that failed to engage the audience.
  • The movie relied on hackneyed plot twists, making it predictable and uninteresting.
Mnemonics:
  • "Hackneyed" can be remembered by associating it with the word "hacked" which suggests something has been tampered with or overused.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "hackneyed" derives from the term "hackney," which originally referred to a horse available for hire. Over time, "hackneyed" came to mean "worn-out" or "commonplace," akin to a horse that had been used and ridden by many people.

Historical Usage:

The use of the term "hackneyed" to describe something as overused or trite emerged in the mid-18th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Hackneyed phrase"

Explanation:

Refers to a clichéd or trite expression that has been used excessively, lacking originality or freshness.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "hackneyed" with "haggard" due to similarities in spelling.

Explanation:

"Hackneyed" refers to something that is overused or trite, while "haggard" means looking exhausted or gaunt. These two words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.

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