it was trite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was trite" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is overused, clichéd, or lacking originality, often in reference to ideas, expressions, or themes. Example: "The movie's plot was predictable and, unfortunately, it was trite, failing to engage the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Giles Oakley London In conception and format, it was trite – while being undeservedly pompous and self-esteeming.

The Guardian

One friend, who worked on "The Cider House Rules," wanted to know if I'd seen it, even though I'd heard it was trite.

The New York Times - Style

She rejected the green-colored, unfinished sheetrock that they had used in other recent projects, including the Prada store in New York, on the ground that it was trite and cheap-looking.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's trite, but it's so sellable".

The New York Times

It's trite and stupid when Ai does it, too.

The Guardian - Arts

It's trite to say, but think of the biggest-wattage stars, like, say, Angelina Jolie.

The New York Times

We can blame the new ballet's scenario: it's trite.

The New York Times - Arts

It's trite to say that things will turn around; things always turn around.

The Guardian - Sport

It's trite but true that mankind has always had a tension between desire and duty.

The New York Times

Working partnerships depend on give-and-take - so obvious it's trite.

The Guardian

It is trite to say "what about summer!" …There are many papers detailing changes in water vapor and precipitation (although the literature is confusing).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was trite" to critique a specific element (plot, dialogue, design) rather than making a sweeping generalization about the entire work. Provide examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "it was trite" excessively in formal academic or professional writing. While acceptable, overuse can make your critique sound dismissive rather than constructive. Opt for more precise and nuanced language.

Linguistic Context

Evaluative assessment. The phrase "it was trite" functions as an evaluative assessment, expressing a negative judgment about the originality and freshness of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English, underscoring its role in expressing subjective critique.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was trite" is used to express that something is unoriginal and overused. Ludwig AI validates the phrase as correct. While grammatically sound, it's best used judiciously, especially in formal contexts, and can be replaced with synonyms like "unoriginal" or "clichéd" for nuanced critique. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase serves to criticize a lack of creativity or freshness in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was unoriginal

Focuses specifically on the lack of newness or uniqueness.

it was commonplace

Highlights that the idea or thing was ordinary and frequently encountered.

it was hackneyed

Emphasizes the overuse and staleness of the expression or idea.

it was pedestrian

Suggests the idea was ordinary and lacking in imagination.

it was banal

Indicates a lack of originality or freshness resulting in boredom.

it was clichéd

Directly points out the use of a tired and overused expression.

it was stale

Implies the idea or thing has lost its freshness and appeal.

it was unimaginative

Highlights the lack of creativity or originality in the idea.

it was conventional

Suggests adherence to established norms, lacking innovation.

it was formulaic

Implies adherence to a standard template or pattern, lacking originality.

FAQs

What does "it was trite" mean?

The phrase "it was trite" means something was unoriginal, overused, and lacking in freshness or impact. It suggests the subject is clichéd and predictable.

When is it appropriate to use "it was trite"?

Use "it was trite" when critiquing something that lacks originality and feels predictable due to overuse. This can apply to plots, themes, designs, or expressions.

What are some alternatives to saying "it was trite"?

You can use alternatives such as "it was unoriginal", "it was clichéd", or "it was banal" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "it was trite" in a sentence?

Example sentences include: "The movie's plot was predictable and, unfortunately, "it was trite", failing to engage the audience"." or "She rejected the design because "it was trite" and lacked innovation."