platitude
What does "platitude" mean?
A platitude is a remark or statement, especially one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful. Think of it as a "hollow" piece of wisdom—something that sounds like it should be profound, but has been repeated so many times that it has lost all its original impact and meaning. It is typically used in formal or critical contexts to describe empty advice or unoriginal observations. People often use the term to dismiss someone who is speaking in clichés, implying that the speaker is lazy or insincere rather than genuinely helpful.
"platitude" in conversation
Discussing a boring speech
Did you catch the CEO's keynote?
Did you catch the CEO's keynote?
I tried, but it was just a string of empty platitudes about 'synergy' and 'working hard'.
I tried, but it was just a string of empty platitudes about 'synergy' and 'working hard'.
Used to criticize corporate jargon that lacks substance.
Giving comfort
I know things are tough, but everything happens for a reason.
I know things are tough, but everything happens for a reason.
Please, spare me the platitudes. I just need to vent.
Please, spare me the platitudes. I just need to vent.
Shows how platitudes can feel dismissive when someone is actually hurting.
"platitude" in a sentence
He offered a few tired platitudes instead of real advice.
He offered a few tired platitudes instead of real advice.
The politician's speech was filled with platitudes that failed to address the actual crisis.
The politician's speech was filled with platitudes that failed to address the actual crisis.
It is easy to resort to platitudes when one lacks the depth to engage with complex human suffering.
It is easy to resort to platitudes when one lacks the depth to engage with complex human suffering.
