Potboiler: meaning, definitions and examples
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potboiler
[ ˈpɒtˌbɔɪlər ]
artistic work
A potboiler is a work of art, particularly literature or music, created merely to generate income rather than for artistic value or quality. It often lacks depth or sophistication and is typically written quickly with a focus on marketability.
Synonyms
cash in, commercial work, quick work
Examples of usage
- The author's latest novel is just a potboiler.
- Critics dismissed the film as a potboiler.
- She is known for her potboilers that appeal to mainstream audiences.
Translations
Translations of the word "potboiler" in other languages:
🇵🇹 obra comercial
🇮🇳 सस्ता उपन्यास
🇩🇪 Schundroman
🇮🇩 karya komersial
🇺🇦 популярний роман
🇵🇱 utylizator
🇯🇵 大衆小説
🇫🇷 roman commercial
🇪🇸 novela comercial
🇹🇷 ticari roman
🇰🇷 상업소설
🇸🇦 رواية تجارية
🇨🇿 komerční román
🇸🇰 komerčný román
🇨🇳 商业小说
🇸🇮 komercialni roman
🇮🇸 viðskiptaheimild
🇰🇿 коммерциялық роман
🇬🇪 კომერციული რომანი
🇦🇿 ticarət romanı
🇲🇽 novela comercial
Etymology
The term 'potboiler' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the literal meaning of a 'pot' used to boil food and the figurative expression of writing works merely to keep the pot boiling, i.e., to earn a living. Writers and artists who produced potboilers were often seen as those who sacrificed the quality of their craft for financial gain. This notion reflects the harsh realities faced by many in the creative industries, where the need for consistent income can lead to the production of less meaningful works. Over time, the term has gained a somewhat pejorative connotation, associated with works that prioritize profit over artistic integrity. In the literary world, potboilers often contribute to genre fiction and popular entertainment, challenging the boundaries of what is considered 'art' versus commercial work.