literary cliche crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "literary cliche crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "literary cliche crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TROPE: A common or overused theme, device, or character type in literature, film, or other forms of art. Often synonymous with cliché when referring to an overused narrative element.
6 Letters
TRUISM: A statement that is obviously true and says nothing new or interesting. While not strictly a literary device, it often functions as a verbal cliché in dialogue or narration.
9 Letters
PLATITUDE: A remark or statement, especially one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful. Commonly found in literature as a character's overused or uninspired saying.
10 Letters
STEREOTYPE: A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. In literature, a character who is a stereotype lacks depth and originality, acting as a literary cliché.
More About "literary cliche crossword clue"
A literary cliché refers to an element of writing—be it a plot device, character, theme, or phrase—that has been used so often that it has lost its originality and impact. While sometimes used intentionally for parody or to evoke a specific, well-understood idea, overuse generally makes writing feel uninspired and predictable.
Examples of literary clichés are abundant: the "damsel in distress," the "chosen one," the "evil villain monologue," or phrases like "it was a dark and stormy night." Identifying these overused elements is crucial for writers striving for originality and for readers who appreciate fresh storytelling. In the context of crosswords, clues pointing to literary clichés often test your knowledge of common literary terms and concepts.
Understanding the nuances of what constitutes a literary cliché can not only help you solve crossword puzzles but also deepen your appreciation for unique and innovative storytelling in literature.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always consider the overall theme of the crossword or other clues in the same row/column. Sometimes, a "literary cliche" clue might be part of a larger literary-themed puzzle.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: The number of letters in the answer is your most powerful hint. Make sure the word you're thinking of precisely matches the required length.
- Think Broadly for "Cliche": Words like 'trope,' 'truism,' 'platitude,' or 'stereotype' are common answers for variations of "cliche." If "literary" is specified, narrow your focus to those that specifically apply to writing or storytelling.
- Consider Synonyms: If your initial thought doesn't fit the letter count, brainstorm synonyms for "cliche" or "overused literary device" until you find one that works.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a literary cliché and an idiom?
A literary cliché is an overused plot device, theme, character, or phrase that has lost its original impact due to repetition (e.g., 'the hero's journey'). An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meaning of its words (e.g., 'raining cats and dogs'). While some idioms can become clichés if overused, they are distinct concepts: one refers to established linguistic usage, the other to overfamiliarity in narrative.
How can I spot a literary cliché in a crossword clue?
Clues for literary clichés often use words like 'overused phrase,' 'hackneyed plot,' 'stock character,' 'trite expression,' or 'commonplace literary device.' Recognizing these keywords can help you narrow down potential answers. Also, consider the length of the expected answer and think of common literary terms that fit.
Are there online resources for specific literary crossword clues?
Yes, many websites specialize in crossword puzzle solutions, including those with literary themes. Answercrossword.com is one such resource, providing detailed explanations and multiple answers for clues like 'literary cliche crossword clue'. Specialized literary sites or forums might also discuss common literary terms that appear in crosswords.