Catchphrase Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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catchphrase

[หˆkatสƒfreษชz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

popular culture

A catchphrase is a phrase or expression that is popularly used, especially by a particular group or individual. It often becomes associated with a specific person, character, or brand.

Examples of usage

  • It's Morphin Time! - Power Rangers
  • I'll be back. - Arnold Schwarzenegger

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Media and Entertainment

  • Catchphrases often emerge from TV shows and movies, becoming part of everyday conversation, like 'Iโ€™ll be back' from Terminator.
  • Comedians frequently use catchphrases to enhance their performance and make their jokes memorable.

Psychology

  • Humans are drawn to repetition; catchphrases create familiarity and comfort, making them easier to remember.
  • The mere exposure effect explains why people can feel more positively toward a phrase after hearing it repeatedly.

Cultural Impact

  • Certain catchphrases can reflect or influence cultural trends, like 'Just Do It' which has inspired countless people to exercise.
  • Catchphrases can unite communities, as seen when fans rally around a beloved saying from their favorite sports team.

Marketing

  • Brands often use catchphrases in advertisements to create a lasting impression and build brand identity.
  • Successful catchphrases can boost sales and brand loyalty by evoking specific emotions or memories in consumers.

Origin of 'catchphrase'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'catchphrase' originated in the late 19th century, combining 'catch', meaning to capture attention, with 'phrase', a group of words.
  • It was first used in advertising to describe memorable slogans that stuck with consumers.

The term 'catchphrase' originated in the mid-19th century and was first used in the context of theater, where certain phrases or expressions became popular with audiences. Over time, catchphrases have become ingrained in popular culture through various forms of media, such as television, movies, and advertising.


See also: catch, catcher, catching, catchy.