Cliches are not funny phrases.

The other day I talked about animal phrases we use. Like “mean as a snake.” Or “kill two birds with one stone.”

But those aren’t cliches. I mean, they could be, but normally they aren’t. Because the animal phrases I’ve mentioned are bright, often funny, and they give you a great mental image. Like, how could you go wrong with what comes to mind when you talk about confronting the elephant in the room?

But a cliche is different. Funny phrases enhance thought, but a cliche stops thought, or stops a discussion.

We’re getting bombarded with these discussion stoppers now. Think: “follow the science.” “New normal.” “Out of an abundance of caution.” “This too will pass.” And last but not least, “social distance.”

If hearing these mindless phrases for the 8 millionth time doesn’t make you want to bang your head against the nearest wall, you’re not paying attention. Not that that’s necessarily a bad thing: not paying a attention is often a good response. But all of these serve the function of stopping any thought, discussion, or debate. And that’s not good.

When you’re tempted to use one of these in a discussion, stop. Give yourself a moment to recollect, and try saying what you’re thinking, unadorned by mindless pablum. Talking with each other is always important, especially now.