As a controller, the only problem I've observed with "taxi into position and hold" (US) is that is has been confused with the (then) ICAO phrase "taxi to the holding position" (Now sensibly replaced with holding point)
There has been occasion when an American pilot has confused "..holding position" with "hold in position". I know of one controller had to order a go-round as a result.
So standardisation can and should be a useful, sensible tool, provided the correct phrases are selected, and phrases used not changed in a whimsical manner, as seems to happen from time to time.
Seen quite a lot of discussion on exact interpretation of some phrases here, which suggest some can be open to interpretation. eg: "Behind the xxx on two mile final line up behind and wait.
(By the way, "wait" need only be used if it is expected there will be a delay to the departing flight)
It all suggests to me that keeping it simple and issuing progressive clearances ranks amongst some of the better safety tools a controller can use.