Schlockier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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schlockier
[ˈʃlɒkiər ]
Definition
low quality
The term 'schlockier' refers to something that is of low quality or inferior craftsmanship. It often describes products, performances, or art that lack genuine value or merit. This word can be used in both artistic and commercial contexts, highlighting a sense of tackiness or superficiality. Schlocky items may be mass-produced and lack originality, leading to a negative perception among consumers.
Synonyms
cheap, inferior, poor, shoddy, tacky.
Examples of usage
- The movie was filled with schlockier special effects.
- I avoided the schlockier souvenirs sold at the tourist trap.
- His writing became increasingly schlockier over the years.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Schlocky movies often feature exaggerated acting, poor production values, and outlandish plots that have become cult classics.
- The rise of 'schlock films' in the 1970s and 80s gave birth to a genre that celebrates badness, such as 'Plan 9 from Outer Space,' renowned for its inept filmmaking.
- Schlock has influenced many modern parody films, where intentional over-the-top elements mimic the qualities that define schlock cinema.
Literature
- In literary terms, 'schlock' can describe writing that is cliched, overly simplistic, or commercialized, often aimed at mass consumption.
- Authors like Stephen King have made comments about schlocky writing, criticizing pablum while also acknowledging its entertainment value.
- The term also appears in critiques of certain historic genres, warning readers against works that prioritize sensationalism over depth or quality.
Psychology
- People often gravitate towards schlocky entertainment for its escapism and humor, allowing for relaxation and laughter without taking things seriously.
- Enjoyment of schlock can be linked to a social phenomenon where individuals bond over shared experiences of watching bad movies or reading poorly written books.
- The concept of 'guilty pleasures' is tied to schlock, where individuals appreciate something widely regarded as low-quality due to personal enjoyment.
Art and Critique
- In art, the term can also describe works that prioritize shock value and commercial success over serious artistic intent.
- Critics often point out that schlocky art challenges traditional definitions of value and quality, sparking debates over what constitutes 'real' art.
- The schlock aesthetic has inspired some contemporary artists, who intentionally create works that push boundaries of taste and conventions.
Origin of 'schlockier'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from Yiddish, where 'shlock' means something worthless or of poor quality.
- First recorded use of 'schlock' in English appeared in the mid-20th century, specifically in relation to low-quality merchandise or entertainment.
- Related terms in Yiddish culture also convey a sense of cheapness or lack of value, reflecting communal attitudes towards quality.
The term 'schlock' is believed to have Yiddish origins, stemming from the word 'shlakhn,' which means 'to make a mess' or 'to spoil.' It was first adopted into American English around the early 20th century, primarily within Jewish immigrant communities. Over time, 'schlock' evolved to describe low-quality goods or mediocre entertainment, often implying a sense of vulgarity or mass-market appeal. The suffix '-ier' is a common English modifier used to form comparative adjectives, indicating a greater degree of the quality being described. Thus, 'schlockier' denotes an even lower standard of quality than simply 'schlock.' As popular culture has evolved, the term has frequently appeared in discussions related to film, literature, and consumer products, often with a humorous or derogatory tone.