Banality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
😒
banality
[bəˈnælɪti ]
Definition
in everyday life
The quality or state of being banal, or devoid of freshness or originality; a commonplace or trite statement, idea, or occurrence.
Synonyms
cliché, ordinariness, platitude, triteness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| banality |
Used to describe something that is boring or lacking in originality because it is very common or obvious.
|
| cliché |
Best used when talking about a phrase or idea that is overused and shows a lack of original thought.
|
| platitude |
Often describes a statement that is intended to be thoughtful or meaningful but is actually dull or superficial. It generally has a slightly negative connotation.
|
| triteness |
Used to critique something as being overly familiar and no longer interesting or effective. It has a negative connotation.
|
| ordinariness |
Refers to the quality of being average, mundane, or not special. It is neutral and often used to describe everyday life.
|
Examples of usage
- It was a banality to say that the sun rises in the East.
- The book was criticized for its banality and lack of unique insights.
- The banality of the small talk at the party was unbearable.
- The film was filled with clichés and banalities.
- His speech was full of banalities and lacked any real substance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, banality can refer to clichéd phrases or predictable plotlines that lack depth.
- Famous authors like George Orwell have criticized certain styles of writing for their banality, emphasizing the need for originality.
Psychology
- Banality can contribute to feelings of boredom or apathy in life, as people often crave novelty and excitement.
- Psychologists suggest that constant exposure to banal situations can reduce overall motivation and engagement.
Culture
- Popular culture often satirizes banality in everyday life, showcasing how mundane moments can be humorously exaggerated.
- Reality television frequently highlights the banality of various lifestyles, drawing viewers into the ordinary behaviors of diverse individuals.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Hannah Arendt explored themes of banality in her work, particularly in reference to the ordinary actions of people during morally questionable times.
- The concept of 'banality of evil' suggests that ordinary people can commit heinous acts without deep, rational thought, merely fitting in with societal norms.
Origin of 'banality'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'banalité,' which means something that is ordinary or common.
- Its roots may be traced back to the Latin 'banalis,' meaning 'belonging to a town,' indicating something familiar or unremarkable.
The word 'banality' originated from the French word 'banalité', which in turn comes from the Latin word 'banalis' meaning 'belonging to a man, common, ordinary'. The term gained prominence in the 20th century with the rise of existentialism, particularly through the works of Jean-Paul Sartre who used it to describe the emptiness and lack of originality in modern life.