Banally: meaning, definitions and examples

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banally

 

[ bəˈnæl.i ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

common usage

Banally refers to something being done in a trite or unoriginal manner, lacking freshness or originality. It often suggests that the action or expression is painfully predictable.

Synonyms

clichéd, mundanely, tritely

Examples of usage

  • He spoke banally about the weather.
  • The movie was banally predictable.
  • Her remarks were so banally stated that they failed to inspire anyone.
  • They banally repeated the same jokes at every gathering.

Translations

Translations of the word "banally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 banalmente

🇮🇳 साधारणता से

🇩🇪 banal

🇮🇩 biasa saja

🇺🇦 банально

🇵🇱 banalnie

🇯🇵 ありふれて

🇫🇷 banalement

🇪🇸 banalmente

🇹🇷 banal bir şekilde

🇰🇷 진부하게

🇸🇦 بشكل تافه

🇨🇿 banálně

🇸🇰 banálne

🇨🇳 平庸地

🇸🇮 banalno

🇮🇸 banalt

🇰🇿 банальды түрде

🇬🇪 ბანალურად

🇦🇿 banal şəkildə

🇲🇽 banalmente

Word origin

The word 'banally' comes from the adjective 'banal,' which has its roots in the French word 'banal,' meaning 'common' or 'trivial.' This French term itself originated from 'ban,' a term that referred to the feudal system's right of the lord to command the use of his land; hence something banal is of no value or significance. The use of 'banal' in English can be traced back to the late 18th century, initially drawing on the French connotations of something mundane or lacking in originality. As the term evolved, it came to describe artistic works or expressions that were perceived as unexciting and formulaic. The adverbial form 'banally' emerged from this base, emphasizing the manner in which actions or expressions are carried out, further entrenching the sense of dullness or predictability.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,546, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.