clichélike

Clichélike refers to something that exhibits characteristics strongly resembling or reminiscent of a cliché. A cliché itself is an overused phrase, expression, or idea that has lost its original impact or novelty due to excessive repetition. Therefore, a clichélike element is not necessarily a direct quotation of a cliché, but rather something that evokes the same feeling of predictability, staleness, or lack of originality. This can apply to various forms of expression, including language, plot devices in literature or film, artistic styles, or even behavioral patterns.

When something is described as clichélike, it suggests that it follows a predictable pattern or relies on familiar tropes. For instance, a character who always delivers a witty one-liner at the exact moment of peril might be described as clichélike, even if the specific line hasn't been used before. Similarly, a story that unfolds in a highly predictable sequence of events, mirroring common narrative structures, can be considered clichélike. The term implies a degree of unoriginality or a tendency to fall into well-worn paths of thought or creation, making the subject matter feel uninspired or hackneyed to an audience familiar with the underlying patterns.