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.
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.
Specifically for jokes, catchphrases, or sayings that have become stale.
Slang for a joke that falls flat, often because it's hackneyed or poorly timed.
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.
ありきたりなデザイン
a hackneyed design
陳腐な比喩
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.
The most common and neutral word for 'hackneyed' or 'commonplace'. Used for ideas, phrases, designs, etc.
彼のスピーチはありきたりな内容だった。
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.
その表現は陳腐で、もう誰も使わない。
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.
そのジョークは使い古されている。
That joke is hackneyed.
Means 'commonplace' or 'mediocre'. Slightly old-fashioned, often used for unoriginal ideas or expressions.
月並みな意見しか出なかった。
Only hackneyed opinions were offered.
その映画の結末はありがちだ。
The movie's ending is hackneyed.
Refers to a 'set pattern' or 'cliché', especially in stories or ceremonies. Can be neutral or slightly negative.
お決まりのハッピーエンドだった。
It was a hackneyed happy ending.
Means 'fixed form' or 'stereotype'. Used for plot patterns that are overly familiar.
定型のストーリーで退屈だ。
It's a hackneyed story and boring.
そのギャグはすべってたよ。
That joke was hackneyed and didn't land.
Literally 'cold', used colloquially for a lame or hackneyed joke that makes people cringe.
寒いダジャレはやめて。
Stop with the hackneyed puns.