Translation guide
A cliché is an overused phrase, idea, or expression that has lost its original impact. In Japanese, there are several ways to express this concept, from direct loanwords to native terms describing trite or formulaic language.
Referring to a phrase or saying that is no longer fresh or original.
A set phrase or stock expression, often used in a slightly negative sense for something overused.
彼のスピーチは決まり文句ばかりだった。
His speech was full of clichés.
Direct loanword from French/English, commonly used in creative or critical contexts.
その映画はクリシェの連続で退屈だった。
That movie was boring because it was a series of clichés.
A conventional phrase; somewhat literary or formal.
彼は常套句を並べて謝罪した。
He apologized using a string of clichés.
Referring to a trite or unoriginal idea, plot, or theme.
Commonplace, ordinary, run-of-the-mill. Often used as a na-adjective.
その話はありきたりで、先が読めた。
The story was clichéd and predictable.
Stale, hackneyed, trite. Stronger negative nuance than ありきたり.
Mediocre, commonplace, trite. Often used for expressions or ideas.
Describing a character, plot device, or scenario that is predictable and overused.
The usual, the stereotypical. Often used in the pattern お決まりの〜.
お決まりのハッピーエンドだった。
It was the clichéd happy ending.
Fixed form, pattern, stereotype. Often used in literary or media analysis.
ありきたり is more neutral and simply means 'commonplace,' while 陳腐 carries a stronger negative judgment of being stale and unoriginal.
Avoid directly translating 'cliché' as クリシェ in all contexts. In casual conversation, ありきたり or 決まり文句 often sound more natural.
Only clichéd ideas come to mind.
月並みな表現で申し訳ありません。
I'm sorry for the clichéd expression.
このキャラクターは定型から抜け出せていない。
This character doesn't break free from the cliché.