Everyone has certain things that they are known for saying. My own particular “catchphrase,” has to do with a little song I like to sing about Radishes being Savages (Pocahantas) while chopping veggies, or dancing with my butt pointed towards people until they are freaked out and uncomfortable (it’s a gift).

On television, however, catchphrases tend to be stupid, sort of meaningless things that a character says at least once per episode, which the shows marketers dream and dream will become soundbites or trends in popular culture. These catchphrases can start out funny, but often morph into obnoxious excuses to stop doing intelligent writing and instead rely on the slow build up to the inevitable same joke episode after episode. The catchphrase, in television, is almost exclusive to the sit-com, for obvious reasons. Here are some that are burned into my brain, for better or for worse:

“How you doin?” Joey, the “lothario” of the friends cast. While this show was on the air, I thought Joey was funny. Looking back, Joey is a loser. Watching him use this line makes my face hurt. The only other Friends catchphrase that came close was, “WE WERE ON A BREAK.”

“Wwwhoa” Joey, again, (Lawrence. I’m sorry, Joseph…) but this time from Blossom. I guess in TV if your name is Joey you are an airhead. Lesson learned.

“Did I do that??” Urkel from Family Matters. Actually kind of funny, still.

“I’ve made a huge mistake…” Gob on Arrested Development. Everything Will Arnett does makes me happy, I think.

“Arr arr arr MORE POWER.” Tim “the D-bag tool man” Taylor from Home Improvement.

“Lucy, you’ve got some ‘SPLAININ to do..” Desi/ Ricky from I Love Lucy. This one I actually like, because it means the impending disaster is about to be revealed… the shizz hitteth the fan…and I heart this.

“Yadda yadda yadda” Everyone, on Seinfeld. I’m pretty sure everyone on earth said this one for awhile, as well as, “NO SOUP FOR YOU”

“Doh!” Homer Simpson

“Let’s Hug it out, B&*%#” Ari from Entourage. I still find this character entertaining.

and finally…

“You got it dude,” “Haaaave Mercy.” “WATCH the HAIR,” “How Rude,” “Is a woodchuck made of…wood?” Michelle Tanner, Uncle Jesse, Uncle Jesse, Stephanie Tanner, Uncle Joey, all from Full House, apparently the catchphrase motherload. That and the big hug at the end practically constructed this show.

So there you have it! Do you have any catchphrases or expressions you say a lot? Did I miss any on my TV list? 

Good night, and Good luck.

Meri