catch phrase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal, Journalistic
Quick answer
What does “catch phrase” mean?
A well-known and frequently repeated phrase, especially one associated with a particular person, group, or brand.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A well-known and frequently repeated phrase, especially one associated with a particular person, group, or brand.
A short, memorable phrase used repeatedly in entertainment, politics, advertising, or popular culture to create identity, humor, or recognition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is spelled as two words in both varieties. 'Tagline' or 'slogan' may be preferred in specific commercial contexts in both, but 'catch phrase' is equally understood.
Connotations
In both, strongly associated with comedy, TV characters, and politicians. In the US, perhaps more linked to game shows and advertising. In the UK, often linked to classic comedy catchphrases.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in media/cultural commentary than in everyday conversation in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “catch phrase” in a Sentence
[Actor]'s catch phrase is '[phrase]'The catch phrase '[phrase]' caught on.'[Phrase]' became his catch phrase.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “catch phrase” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- catch-phrase humour
American English
- catch-phrase comedy
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a memorable marketing or brand slogan designed for public recognition.
Academic
Used in media studies, cultural analysis, or linguistics to discuss formulaic language and popular culture.
Everyday
Used when discussing TV shows, comedians, or memorable quotes from public figures.
Technical
Not typically a technical term outside of specific fields like media or advertising.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “catch phrase”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “catch phrase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “catch phrase”
- Misspelling as one word: 'catchphrase' (while common, standard dictionaries often list it as two words).
- Using it for any common proverb or saying without the element of association with a specific source.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is most traditionally and formally given as two words ('catch phrase'), though the hyphenated form 'catch-phrase' and the single word 'catchphrase' are also widely seen in modern usage.
A slogan is specifically for advertising or promotion (e.g., 'Just Do It'). A catch phrase is broader and is associated with a person or character for recognition or humour, though a slogan can become a catch phrase if widely adopted in culture.
Yes, but it must gain some level of repeated use and recognition. A phrase only said once is not a catch phrase.
No, it is primarily an informal or journalistic term. In formal academic writing, terms like 'formulaic utterance' or 'signature phrase' might be preferred.
A well-known and frequently repeated phrase, especially one associated with a particular person, group, or brand.
Catch phrase: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkætʃ ˌfreɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkætʃ ˌfreɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “catch on (as a phrase)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a fisherman CATCHing a PHRASE that everyone then repeats.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PHRASE IS A CONTAGIOUS DISEASE (it 'catches on').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the BEST example of a catch phrase?