In this paper we explore one specific aspect of the way language is used in organizations—the use of cliche and slogans by organizational members. Drawing upon a 12-month qualitative study of two international accountancy practices ('Firm A' and `Firm B') we examine different instances of cliche in the discourse of their organizational actors. The cliches are seen to operate in several complex ways, but at a general level are understood to be intimately linked to the accomplishment of control within professional organizations.
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