Banal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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banal
[bษหnษหl ]
Definitions
everyday life
lacking originality, common, boring, uninteresting
Synonyms
commonplace, mundane, ordinary, predictable, trite.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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banal |
Used to describe something very obvious, boring, and lacking originality. Often has a negative connotation.
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trite |
Describes a remark or idea that is overused and lacks originality. Often has a negative connotation.
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mundane |
Often refers to something that is very ordinary and not interesting or exciting. It can also refer to the routine aspects of life.
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commonplace |
Describes something that is frequently seen, heard, or experienced and thus not considered unusual or special.
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ordinary |
Describes something that is standard, typical, or expected and does not stand out.
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predictable |
Used to describe something that can be easily foreseen or expected.
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Examples of usage
- His banal jokes never made anyone laugh.
- The movie's plot was so banal that it was predictable from the start.
art
a banal statement or work of art lacks originality and is boring or predictable
Synonyms
clichรฉ, hackneyed, platitude, stale, unoriginal.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
banal |
Used to describe something that lacks originality to the point of being boring or predictable.
|
clichรฉ |
Refers to an overused expression or idea that has lost its impact or novelty.
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platitude |
Relates to a remark or statement that is used so often that it is seen as insincere or meaningless.
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hackneyed |
Describes language, ideas, or artistic work that is overused and unoriginal, often used in literature or art criticism.
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stale |
Applied to something that no longer excites or interests due to overuse or lack of freshness; can also refer to physical objects like food.
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unoriginal |
Describes work or ideas that are not new or unique, often implying imitation or lack of creativity.
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Examples of usage
- Some critics argue that the painting is banal and lacks creativity.
- The artist was criticized for his banal lyrics and lack of depth.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'banal'
The word 'banal' originates from the French word 'banal' meaning 'common' or 'ordinary'. It entered the English language in the mid-18th century. Over time, 'banal' has come to describe something lacking originality or interest, often used to criticize unoriginal works of art or mundane conversation.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #21,523, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 21520 yam
- 21521 reincarnation
- 21522 gregarious
- 21523 banal
- 21524 untied
- 21525 thousandth
- 21526 churned
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