banality
Noun: 1. The quality of being banal; unoriginality: The state of being dull, ordinary, and lacking in freshness or originality. 2. A trite or obvious remark; a commonplace statement: A specific saying, observation, or idea that is overused and therefore has lost its impact or meaning.
The word "banality" is used to describe something that is overly familiar, predictable, and devoid of originality. It often carries a negative connotation, implying boredom or intellectual laziness. * As a quality (uncountable noun): It refers to the characteristic itself. * The banality of the speech disappointed the audience. * As a specific instance (countable noun): It refers to a particular banal statement or thing. * He filled his essay with tired banalities.
- Noun (Quality):
- Critics attacked the film for its banality and lack of creative vision.
- She was frustrated by the banality of everyday office small talk.
- Noun (Specific Instance):
- "Think outside the box" has become a banality in business meetings.
- The politician's response was a mere banality, avoiding the real issue.
- "The banality of evil": A famous phrase coined by philosopher Hannah Arendt, describing how great evils in history can be perpetrated by ordinary people following mundane routines and clichéd ideologies, rather than by monstrous fanatics.
- Her report on the trial explored the disturbing concept of the banality of evil.
- Banal (adjective): Dull, ordinary, and unoriginal.
- The dialogue was banal and uninspiring.
- Banally (adverb): In a banal manner.
- The theme was banally executed.
- Triteness: The quality of being overused and consequently lacking interest.
- Commonplaceness: The state of being ordinary and not unusual.
- Platitude: A remark or statement, especially one with moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful.
- Cliche: A phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought.
- Originality: The quality of being novel or unusual.
- Freshness: The quality of being new and interesting.
- Profundity: Deep insight; great depth of knowledge or thought.