Translation guide
Describes something overused and lacking freshness, such as a phrase, idea, or plot. Japanese has several words for 'clichéd' or 'trite', with different nuances and formality levels.
To say that a phrase, idea, or expression is overused and unoriginal.
The most common and neutral word for 'hackneyed' or 'commonplace'. Used for ideas, phrases, designs, etc.
His speech was full of hackneyed content.
A slightly formal word meaning 'stale' or 'trite'. Often used for ideas or expressions that have lost freshness.
That expression is hackneyed; nobody uses it anymore.
Literally 'worn-out from use'. Emphasizes that something has been used so much it's no longer effective.
That joke is hackneyed.
Means 'commonplace' or 'mediocre'. Slightly old-fashioned, often used for unoriginal ideas or expressions.
Only hackneyed opinions were offered.
To describe a story, movie plot, or narrative device that is predictable and unoriginal.
Means 'common' or 'typical' in a negative sense, often used for predictable story developments.
The movie's ending is hackneyed.
Refers to a 'set pattern' or 'cliché', especially in stories or ceremonies. Can be neutral or slightly negative.
Means 'fixed form' or 'stereotype'. Used for plot patterns that are overly familiar.
Specifically for jokes, catchphrases, or sayings that have become stale.
ありきたり is everyday and neutral, while 陳腐 is more formal and explicitly negative. Use ありきたり in conversation, 陳腐 in writing or criticism.
a hackneyed design
a hackneyed metaphor
There is no direct Japanese equivalent for 'hackneyed' as a single adjective. Use the options above depending on context. Avoid literal translations like ハックニード.
お決まりのハッピーエンドだった。
It was a hackneyed happy ending.
定型のストーリーで退屈だ。
It's a hackneyed story and boring.
Stop with the hackneyed puns.