by Julie A. Winrich | Jan 8, 2026 | Writing in General
Hope everyone had a very Happy New Year! Last Clichés: Doom and Gloom—A very pessimistic outlook. This dates from the mid-20th century. [Eric Partridge suggested it may refer to fears of nuclear war] and is often used as an adjective, i.e.: “He’s a real doom-and-gloom...
by Julie A. Winrich | Apr 1, 2020 | Writing in General
Hope you’re all safe and doing well during these stay at home times. First – last clichés: Chilling Out– Calm down, take it easy. This dates to 1980. It alludes to being “cool,” i.e. laid back or clever. Chips are Down– Either the situation is...
by Julie A. Winrich | Jun 26, 2019 | Writing, Writing in General
Outlining is not a must, but from what I read, it’s considered the best way to do things. First let’s do: Last Clichés: Nose out of Joint — To be jealous or irritated, especially when one is supplanted or displaced by someone else. This term appeared...
by Julie A. Winrich | Nov 11, 2016 | Writing in General
I’ll continue with my talk, But first– Last Clichés: Silver-tongued Orator—A persuasive and eloquent speaker. Term around since 16th Century, when applied to a preacher Henry Smith (c. 1550-91) and to Joshua Sylvester (1563-1618), a translator. Silver is...
by Julie A. Winrich | Dec 16, 2015 | Writing in General
Hope you all have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, etc., and a very Happy, Healthy New Year! First, last clichés: Have one’s hands full—To be very busy, be completely occupied or to have more than enough to do. This dates from the 15th century, maybe earlier. See...
by Julie A. Winrich | May 2, 2015 | Writing in General
Can’t believe my last post was January 8, 2015! No excuses, but was sick, mother-in-law fell and broke hip, and now I’m back to work for a bit after being retired for a very long time. But have to work for our business. Last clichés: I don’t think so—Don’t agree with...
