Stock phrase

Categories: Phrases | English phrases

A stock phrase is a spoken phrase which has little or no actual meaning of its own; it carries meaning only through custom or context. To learn the meaning of a given stock phrase, consult a dictionary, such as the Wiktionary.

Typical stock phrases are:

  • "Have a nice day" - which may be spoken by a convenience store clerk in the middle of the night
  • "Have a good one"
  • "Take it easy"
  • "No problem" - which may be used as a reply to "thank you" (Meaning, "my labor was not significant")
  • "No sweat"
  • "Chill out"
  • "Come on"
  • "Whatever" - which may be used to indicate that the speaker doesn't wish to continue the conversation.
  • "You know?" or "You know what I'm saying?"
  • "How are you?" or "How are you doing?" - with the asker actually not being interested in any response.

Certain stock phrases originate from TV, films, video games, and computer worms, and soon become a part of popular culture. Examples include:

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See also