pet phrase
Habitual verbal tic
A pet phrase is an expression someone uses habitually, often to the point where others notice or find it characteristic of that person.
Unlike a catchphrase, which implies deliberate branding or public recognition, a pet phrase suggests an unconscious verbal habit: His pet phrase is "at the end of the day".
The term carries mild affection or gentle mockery.
- catchphraseSignature line of words
- mantraRepeated focus phrase
- sayingShort, wise expression
- sloganMemorable promotional phrase
- buzzwordTrendy jargon, often hollow
tagline · cliché · refrain · motto · trademark · habit · quirk · verbal tic · repetition · on repeat · signature · expression · idiom · quip · go-to · favorite · parrot · echo
- signature expressionscatchphrase, slogan, motto, tagline, famous last words
- catchphrasescatchphrase, why so serious, cowabunga, good grief, yabba dabba doo
- expressionsexpression, I love you, idioms, thank you, I'm sorry