banal

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'banal' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is predictable, dull, unoriginal, or overly commonplace. Example sentence: The sitcom's jokes were so banal that it was almost painful to watch.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Make this the year YOU discover a new destination," he sarcastically writes in its captions, recalling the banal exhortations of holiday brochures.

The Guardian - Arts

Even the strutting pomp of Ziggy and Aladdin Sane, Diamond Dogs and Young Americans seem rather banal now.

The Guardian - Music

Some fear it will simply be a spoken version of banal Twitter updates.

The Guardian

In 1937 Vogue wrote: "Just the basics are enough, when tasteful, to make even the most banal room personal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These are just two of the hugely important future issues which these seven intelligent men and women might have discussed – if the shapers of the programme were not so banal in their thought and execution.

The Guardian

Anything that isn't banal is said to be an outburst.

The Guardian - Sport

Being a thief is banal but writing about it is magnificent and with this exhibitionist act of tedious subversion, I have recreated myself once more as gullible, European radicals reclaim me for their own.

The Guardian - Books

As Kingsley Amis put it: "The slightest and most banal coincidence or point of resemblance, or even just- perceptible absence of one, unworthy of a single grunt of interest, gets called 'ironical'ironical

The Guardian

But the modern condition is twitchy, rather than reflective; if it lends itself to any notion of history, it tends to be so banal that it does not stand even a moment's scrutiny.

The Guardian - Opinion

It means that crimes of confused passion must be hate crimes, just like cases that involve someone being dragged behind a truck, as in Officer Caster's banal fantasy of violence, because both have to do with being LGBT.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's banal and also semi-literate at times.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "banal" to critique ideas, expressions, or creative works that lack originality and freshness. It's particularly effective when highlighting the disappointing ordinariness of something that was expected to be innovative.

Common error

While "banal" is widely understood, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing where more nuanced vocabulary might be more impactful. Consider alternatives like "derivative" or "pedestrian" for a more sophisticated critique.

Linguistic Context

The word "banal" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something as unoriginal, commonplace, and lacking in freshness. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts, aligning with its definition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

27%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "banal" is a frequently used adjective that describes something as unoriginal, commonplace, and lacking in freshness. Ludwig AI validates that it is grammatically correct and is applicable in numerous contexts. The term is most commonly found in News & Media and Formal & Business settings, with usage also appearing in Scientific sources. While versatile, its overuse, especially in formal writing, should be avoided for more nuanced vocabulary. Overall, understanding the proper use of "banal" enhances clarity and precision in writing, ensuring that criticism of unoriginality is conveyed effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trite

Emphasizes the overuse and resulting staleness of a phrase or idea.

hackneyed

Highlights the lack of originality due to excessive use.

commonplace

Focuses on the ordinariness and lack of distinctiveness.

unoriginal

Directly points out the absence of new or creative elements.

predictable

Stresses the lack of surprise or unexpectedness.

platitudinous

Indicates a remark or statement that is dull or insipid, especially when delivered as if it were fresh or profound.

stock

Implies a lack of originality or individuality, suggesting something is standard or generic.

run-of-the-mill

Denotes something ordinary and not special in any way.

conventional

Highlights adherence to established norms and lack of innovation.

uninspired

Focuses on the lack of creativity or enthusiasm.

FAQs

How can I use "banal" in a sentence?

Use "banal" to describe something that is common in a boring way, lacking originality or freshness. For example, "The presentation was filled with "banal" observations that failed to engage the audience."

What words are similar to "banal"?

Synonyms for "banal" include "trite", "hackneyed", "commonplace", and "unoriginal". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "banal" in academic writing?

Yes, it's acceptable, but in certain contexts, opting for more precise vocabulary such as "derivative" or "pedestrian" might better suit the formal tone and rigor of academic writing.

What is the difference between "banal" and "mundane"?

"Banal" refers specifically to a lack of originality or freshness, often implying something is boring because it's overused. "Mundane" simply means ordinary or lacking excitement, without necessarily implying a lack of originality. While related, "banal" focuses on the overuse of ideas or expressions, and "mundane" focuses on day-to-day routine.