On Christmas Day 2025, comedian and podcaster Adam Buxton sparked a lively discussion about the prevalence of clichés in communication. During his annual festive podcast, he revealed that his wife has a strong aversion to the phrase, “I hope this email finds you well.” Buxton shared her opinion that the phrase is “pointless and annoying,” a sentiment he found surprising but ultimately valid.
As the year comes to a close, Buxton’s remarks invite a broader reflection on the language we use in both personal and professional settings. With a new year on the horizon, he encourages listeners to consider which clichés should be retired. He suggests that phrases such as “circling back,” “reaching out,” and “let’s hop on a call” contribute to a culture of overused expressions that diminish the effectiveness of communication.
Clichés in Professional Communication
In many professional contexts, the use of tired phrases can hinder genuine connection. Buxton emphasizes that common expressions like “I hope you’re enjoying the sunshine” or “We miss you!” in customer outreach can come off as insincere or even intrusive. He highlights the need for a more authentic approach to communication, particularly as businesses reach out to former customers.
The podcast also critiques how clichés extend beyond written communication into everyday interactions. Buxton points out that restaurants often become a minefield of overused phrases. For instance, when waitstaff deliver sharing platters, patrons may resort to the tired quip, “Well here’s mine, what’s everyone else having?” Such comments, while meant to be humorous, frequently fall flat.
Moreover, the podcast discusses how certain phrases have become so ubiquitous that they elicit groans rather than laughter. The classic response, “Time you got a watch!” when asked for the time, is one example where the humor has long since worn thin. Buxton encourages listeners to be mindful of their language choices, especially when interacting with service staff or in social situations.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
As 2026 approaches, Buxton’s call to action is clear: it is time to banish these clichés from our daily conversations. He urges individuals to think creatively and communicate more sincerely, moving away from phrases that have lost their impact. By doing so, we can foster more meaningful exchanges in both personal and professional spheres.
With the potential for a fresh start in the new year, the challenge lies in collectively choosing to eliminate these tired expressions from our lexicon. Buxton’s commentary serves as a reminder that language shapes our interactions, and it is our responsibility to ensure those interactions are genuine and engaging.
As we reflect on the past year, it may be worth considering which phrases we can leave behind. The push for a language refresh could resonate well into 2026, creating a more authentic communication landscape.
