A saying is something that is said, notable in one respect or another.

Depending on the aspects of the notability, there are a number of synonyms, or flavors of the notion:

• Aphorism. A concise definition, notably memorable.

• Adage. An aphorism that has gained credibility by virtue of long use.

• Chestnut. A long-used and well-known story, comment, or quote.

• Cliche. An overly commonplace, hackneyed or trite saying.

• Epigram. A poetic form of comment on a particular idea, occurrence, or person.

• Gnome (Greek: gnome, from gignoskein, to know). A type of saying, especially an aphorism or a maxim, that is designed to provide instruction in a compact form.

• Maxim. A fundamental priniciple or rule. A maxim is a wise saying, especially one intended to advise or recommend a course of conduct. In comparison to its approximate synonyms: saying, adage, saw, motto, epigram, proverb, aphorism, the term maxim stresses the succinct formulation of an ultimate truth, a fundamental principle, or a rule of conduct. The word derives from the Latin word maximus, "greatest", via an expression maxima propositio, "greatest premiss".

• Motto. A concise expression of motivation.

• Platitude. A flat, insipid, trite, or weak remark.

• Proverb. An expression of practical truth or wisdom.

• Quip. A witty or funny observation.

• Saw. A saying that is commonplace, longstanding and occasionally trite.

• Witticism. A smart saying, notable for its form or style rather than its content.

Phrases

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