Avoid cliches like the plague in your writing, for they can be deadly. See how easy it is for one to sneak in.

Cliches are phrases so overused that they’ve lost their impact. If you can complete a phrase when you hear its beginning, it’s a cliche, and these tired expressions make your writing seem uninspired and dull. Strive for freshness and originality.

If you’ve heard it before, don’t use it! Period. End of story.