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inane

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "inane": Inane describes something that lacks substance, sense, or meaning. The mental image is of a hollow s

What does "inane" mean?

Inane describes something that lacks substance, sense, or meaning. The mental image is of a hollow shell or a balloon that has been pricked—it looks like something, but there is absolutely nothing of value or intelligence inside to hold it up. It is typically used to criticize ideas, comments, or behavior that are annoyingly silly or trivial. While "silly" can be affectionate, "inane" carries a sharper, more judgmental tone, implying that the person or thing being described is wasting everyone's time with their lack of depth.

"inane" in conversation

Work meeting

Did you hear his suggestion for the marketing campaign?

Did you hear his suggestion for the marketing campaign?

Yeah, it was completely inane. How does he still have a job?

Yeah, it was completely inane. How does he still have a job?

Used here to dismiss a professional suggestion as lacking any intellectual merit.

Watching TV

I can't believe we've been watching this inane reality show for three hours.

I can't believe we've been watching this inane reality show for three hours.

I know, it's total brain rot, but I can't look away.

I know, it's total brain rot, but I can't look away.

Highlights the vacuous nature of low-quality entertainment.

"inane" in a sentence

  1. He made an inane comment about the weather.

    He made an inane comment about the weather.

  2. The movie was filled with inane dialogue that made the plot impossible to follow.

    The movie was filled with inane dialogue that made the plot impossible to follow.

  3. I find it difficult to engage in conversation with people who insist on discussing such inane trivialities.

    I find it difficult to engage in conversation with people who insist on discussing such inane trivialities.

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