Definition

Adjective: * Lacking spontaneity, originality, or individuality; not unique or imaginative: Describes something, especially an idea, expression, or character, that is oversimplified, fixed, conventional, and repeated without change or thought. It implies a predictable and unoriginal quality derived from a common stereotype.

Usage

The adjective "stereotyped" is used to criticize something as being clichéd, formulaic, or derived from an oversimplified and widely held belief. It often describes language, behavior, roles, or portrayals that are not based on individual characteristics but on a standardized image.

Examples

• The novel's characters were disappointingly stereotyped; the hero was always brave, and the villain was always cruel.
• She gave a stereotyped answer that avoided addressing the real question.
• The comedian relied on stereotyped impressions of politicians instead of original material.
• Their advertising campaign was criticized for its stereotyped portrayal of gender roles.

Advanced Usage

• "to become stereotyped": To lose originality and become fixed in a conventional form.
  • His acting style has become stereotyped over the years; he always plays the same gruff detective.
• "stereotyped thinking": A fixed and oversimplified way of thinking that does not account for individuality.
  • Progress is hindered by stereotyped thinking about what certain jobs should be.

Variants and Related Words

• Stereotype (noun): A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.
  • The film challenges the stereotype of the helpless heroine.
• Stereotype (verb): To view or represent someone or something according to a stereotype.
  • It is unfair to stereotype an entire generation.
• Stereotypical (adjective): Relating to or resembling a stereotype; very typical of a stereotype.
  • He had the stereotypical appearance of a college professor.

Synonyms

• Conventional: Based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.
• Formulaic: Made or done according to a standard formula; predictable.
• Clichéd: Showing a lack of originality; based on frequently repeated phrases or ideas.
• Hackneyed: Lacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal and trite.

Antonyms

• Original: Created directly and personally by a particular artist; not a copy or imitation.
• Unique: Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else.
• Imaginative: Having or showing creativity or inventiveness.
• Spontaneous: Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse or inclination and without premeditation or external stimulus.

Adjective

1. lacking spontaneity or originality or individuality
   • stereotyped phrases of condolence
   • even his profanity was unimaginative