Undistinguished: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes something that does not stand out or is not particularly special. Often used for people or achievements.

• Despite his undistinguished career, he was well-liked by his colleagues

Indicates something that is not worth noting or lacks any special qualities. Often used in negative reviews or descriptions.

• The movie was unremarkable; there was nothing particularly good or bad about it

Implies something that is normal, lacking any special features or distinctions. Often used to describe daily life or typical things.

• He was just an ordinary guy, living an ordinary life

Refers to something typical or in the middle range in terms of quality or quantity. Commonly used to describe performance, abilities, or statistics.

• Her performance was just average; it wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either

Used to describe something that is frequently encountered or widespread. Often refers to shared characteristics or prevalence.

• Smartphones have become common in today's society

Describes something simple, without decorations or anything extra. Often used for objects, appearance, or style.

• She prefers plain clothing without any fancy details

Used to describe someone or something that does not stand out in any notable or memorable way. Often implies a lack of achievement or uniqueness.

• The restaurant was undistinguished, offering a menu very similar to other diners in the area.
• His career remained largely undistinguished until he found his true calling.

Carries a negative connotation and is used to describe something that is only moderate or acceptable in quality, often implying disappointment or dissatisfaction.

• The movie received mediocre reviews, with critics saying it lacked originality.
• He was a mediocre player, never really impressing anyone on the field.

Indicates something that is not particularly good or bad, simply ordinary with no outstanding features. Neutral to slightly negative.

• The performance was unexceptional, with the actors delivering their lines competently but without great flair.
• The hotel offered unexceptional service, doing just enough to meet guests' needs.

Refers to something that is typical, normal, or middle-of-the-road. This word is generally neutral and is used to describe the standard or expected level.

• The student scored an average grade on the test, right in the middle of the class.
• An average car can get you from point A to point B without much flair but reliably.

Describes something that is common, usual, or unremarkable. This word is neutral and emphasizes the lack of anything special or different.

• She led an ordinary life, working a 9 to 5 job and spending weekends with her family.
• The house was ordinary, with no distinct architectural features.

Used in informal contexts to describe something that is average, not special, or just like many others. Typically neutral or slightly negative.

• It was just a run-of-the-mill meeting, with nothing exciting to report.
• The bakery sold run-of-the-mill pastries that didn’t stand out from those at other shops.