5 Catch Phrase Rules

When it comes to crafting effective catchphrases, there are several key principles to keep in mind. A catchphrase is a phrase or expression that is repeatedly used by someone, such as a politician, celebrity, or athlete, to convey a particular message or idea. In order to be successful, a catchphrase must be memorable, easy to repeat, and convey a clear message. Here are five catchphrase rules to consider:
Rule 1: Keep it Simple and Memorable

A good catchphrase should be easy to remember and simple to repeat. It should also be concise and to the point, avoiding complex language or convoluted ideas. Consider the catchphrase “Just Do It,” which is short, simple, and easy to remember. This catchphrase, made famous by Nike, has become a cultural phenomenon and is widely recognized as a call to action. By keeping your catchphrase simple and memorable, you can increase its chances of being repeated and remembered by others.
Examples of Simple and Memorable Catchphrases
Other examples of simple and memorable catchphrases include “Finger Lickin’ Good” (KFC), “The Ultimate Driving Machine” (BMW), and “Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands” (M&M’s). Each of these catchphrases is short, easy to remember, and conveys a clear message about the brand or product.
Catchphrase | Brand |
---|---|
Just Do It | Nike |
Finger Lickin' Good | KFC |
The Ultimate Driving Machine | BMW |
Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands | M&M's |

Rule 2: Make it Emotional and Relatable

A good catchphrase should also be emotional and relatable. It should speak to people’s feelings and values, and create a connection with the audience. Consider the catchphrase “The Best Part of Waking Up,” which is used by Folgers coffee. This catchphrase is emotional and relatable because it evokes a sense of warmth and comfort, and creates a positive association with the brand.
Examples of Emotional and Relatable Catchphrases
Other examples of emotional and relatable catchphrases include “The Real Thing” (Coca-Cola), “Have It Your Way” (Burger King), and “The Ultimate Driving Experience” (Mercedes-Benz). Each of these catchphrases creates an emotional connection with the audience and conveys a sense of value and personality.
Key Points
- A catchphrase should be simple and memorable
- A catchphrase should be emotional and relatable
- A catchphrase should be consistent with the brand's tone and message
- A catchphrase should be unique and distinctive
- A catchphrase should be used consistently across all marketing channels
Rule 3: Make it Consistent with the Brand’s Tone and Message
A good catchphrase should also be consistent with the brand’s tone and message. It should reflect the brand’s values and personality, and create a cohesive and recognizable brand identity. Consider the catchphrase “Think Different,” which was used by Apple in the 1990s. This catchphrase was consistent with Apple’s tone and message of innovation and creativity, and helped to establish the brand as a leader in the tech industry.
Examples of Consistent Catchphrases
Other examples of consistent catchphrases include “The Coca-Cola Company: Taste the Feeling” (Coca-Cola), “Burger King: Have It Your Way” (Burger King), and “Nike: Just Do It” (Nike). Each of these catchphrases reflects the brand’s tone and message, and creates a cohesive and recognizable brand identity.
Rule 4: Make it Unique and Distinctive
A good catchphrase should also be unique and distinctive. It should stand out from other catchphrases and create a memorable and recognizable brand identity. Consider the catchphrase “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” which is used by BMW. This catchphrase is unique and distinctive because it creates a sense of exclusivity and high-performance, and sets BMW apart from other car brands.
Examples of Unique and Distinctive Catchphrases
Other examples of unique and distinctive catchphrases include “Finger Lickin’ Good” (KFC), “The Real Thing” (Coca-Cola), and “Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands” (M&M’s). Each of these catchphrases is unique and distinctive, and creates a memorable and recognizable brand identity.
Rule 5: Use it Consistently Across All Marketing Channels

Finally, a good catchphrase should be used consistently across all marketing channels. It should be included in advertising, social media, packaging, and other marketing materials, to create a cohesive and recognizable brand identity. Consider the catchphrase “Just Do It,” which is used by Nike across all marketing channels. This catchphrase is consistently used in advertising, social media, and packaging, and has become a recognizable and iconic part of the Nike brand.
What makes a catchphrase effective?
+A catchphrase is effective when it is simple and memorable, emotional and relatable, consistent with the brand’s tone and message, unique and distinctive, and used consistently across all marketing channels.
How can I create a catchphrase for my brand?
+To create a catchphrase for your brand, start by brainstorming ideas that reflect your brand’s values and personality. Consider what makes your brand unique and distinctive, and what message you want to convey to your audience. Then, test your ideas with your target audience and refine your catchphrase based on feedback.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a catchphrase?
+Some common mistakes to avoid when creating a catchphrase include making it too long or complicated, using jargon or technical terms, and failing to test it with your target audience. Additionally, avoid using a catchphrase that is inconsistent with your brand’s tone and message, or that is not unique and distinctive.