Banal: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something very obvious, boring, and lacking originality. Often has a negative connotation.

• The movie was filled with banal dialogue that didn't add anything to the plot.
• Her observations about life were rather banal and uninspiring.

Describes a remark or idea that is overused and lacks originality. Often has a negative connotation.

• His speech was filled with trite expressions and clichés.
• The author's latest book was criticized for being trite and unoriginal.

Often refers to something that is very ordinary and not interesting or exciting. It can also refer to the routine aspects of life.

• Her job involves handling mundane tasks like filing paperwork and answering emails.
• The book explores the beauty in the mundane aspects of everyday life.

Describes something that is frequently seen, heard, or experienced and thus not considered unusual or special.

• Smartphones have become a commonplace item in today's society.
• It is commonplace to see people working on their laptops in coffee shops.

Describes something that is standard, typical, or expected and does not stand out.

• He just wanted to lead an ordinary life, free from any drama.
• The meal was good, but quite ordinary - nothing particularly memorable.

Used to describe something that can be easily foreseen or expected.

• The plot of the movie was so predictable that I guessed the ending within the first 10 minutes.
• Her reactions are always predictable; she doesn't like surprises.

Used to describe something that lacks originality to the point of being boring or predictable.

• The movie was criticized for its banal plot.
• He offered the same banal advice we had heard before.

Refers to an overused expression or idea that has lost its impact or novelty.

• The story of the hero saving the damsel in distress has become a cliché.
• Her speech was filled with clichés that didn't inspire anyone.

Relates to a remark or statement that is used so often that it is seen as insincere or meaningless.

• The politician's speech was full of platitudes about hard work and perseverance.
• She offered platitudes instead of addressing the real issues.

Describes language, ideas, or artistic work that is overused and unoriginal, often used in literature or art criticism.

• The novel's ending was rather hackneyed, predictable, and unsatisfying.
• Hackneyed expressions like 'it is what it is' don't add much value.

Applied to something that no longer excites or interests due to overuse or lack of freshness; can also refer to physical objects like food.

• His jokes have become stale and no longer make people laugh.
• The bread was stale and not fit for eating.

Describes work or ideas that are not new or unique, often implying imitation or lack of creativity.

• The essay was criticized for its unoriginal content.
• Her designs were unoriginal, looking exactly like those of other famous brands.