'Work hard, play hard': An analysis of organizational cliche in two accountancy practices

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 cliche's 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.