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banal

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "banal": The word "banal" describes something that is so boring and unoriginal that it has lost all freshness

What does "banal" mean?

The word "banal" describes something that is so boring and unoriginal that it has lost all freshness or appeal. Imagine a conversation or a piece of art that feels like a photocopy of a photocopy; it is predictable, cliché, and lacks any spark of creativity or genuine thought. While it is a formal word, you will often hear it used in critical discussions about movies, music, or small talk. It carries a slightly judgmental tone, implying that whatever is being described is not just simple, but disappointingly devoid of substance or imagination.

"banal" in conversation

Critiquing a movie

What did you think of the new thriller?

What did you think of the new thriller?

Honestly, the plot was completely banal.

Honestly, the plot was completely banal.

I agree, I saw the twist coming from the first scene.

I agree, I saw the twist coming from the first scene.

Used here to emphasize that a plot was predictable and uninspired.

Discussing office small talk

I can't stand these Monday morning meetings.

I can't stand these Monday morning meetings.

It's just banal chatter about the weather every single time.

It's just banal chatter about the weather every single time.

Highlights how repetitive social conventions can feel empty.

"banal" in a sentence

  1. He made a few banal comments about the weather.

    He made a few banal comments about the weather.

  2. The song lyrics were criticized for being overly banal and repetitive.

    The song lyrics were criticized for being overly banal and repetitive.

  3. She sought to escape the banal routine of her daily life by traveling to remote regions.

    She sought to escape the banal routine of her daily life by traveling to remote regions.

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