The tutor discusses a polarizing element of language.

A cliché used in a formal essay will likely be cordoned with red ink.  The English professor wants original content, rather than what everyone already says.

In everyday life, however, uttering a cliché is safe, while giving an original idea is risky.  Generally, people who follow everyone else are much more popular than those who offer their own ideas.

The use of clichés is a quintessential example of the conflict between academic vs “everyday” thinking.  The “everyday” person argues that, in a job, saying clichés is fine.  In fact, original thinking may not even be welcome in the workplace.  Typically, the boss wants things done one way – their way; the employees are expected to be predictable and compliant.

The academic argues that, to get a good job, a person likely must pass a college English course.  It’s “academic”, what the boss wants, if one doesn’t have the prerequisite to qualify for the job.  Therefore, refraining from the use of clichés, in the prerequisite context, might help pave the way towards eventually getting that job.

Underlying the conflict about using clichés is the difference in values held by academics vs everyday people.  Specifically, academics value independent thought, while everyday people value conformity.

Clichés are fundamental to everyday communication.  I’m planning more posts that focus on their use.

Jack of Oracle Tutoring by Jack and Diane, Campbell River, BC.