trite
What does "trite" mean?
The word "trite" describes something—usually an idea, expression, or opinion—that has been used so often that it has lost its original impact or freshness. Imagine a song that was once deep and moving but has been played on the radio so many times that it now sounds like background noise; that is the essence of triteness. It is a critical term often used in literary or professional settings to point out a lack of originality. You would typically use this to describe clichés, predictable plot twists, or overly sentimental remarks. It suggests that while the statement might be true, it is so worn out that it no longer feels sincere or insightful.
"trite" in conversation
Critiquing a presentation
I thought the presentation was okay, but the opening quote was a bit trite.
I thought the presentation was okay, but the opening quote was a bit trite.
I agree, 'follow your dreams' is a bit of a cliché at this point.
I agree, 'follow your dreams' is a bit of a cliché at this point.
Used to criticize a common, overused sentiment.
Discussing a movie
What did you think of the new thriller?
What did you think of the new thriller?
The plot was incredibly trite; I guessed the 'twist' within the first ten minutes.
The plot was incredibly trite; I guessed the 'twist' within the first ten minutes.
Used to describe a predictable or unoriginal narrative.
"trite" in a sentence
The student gave a trite excuse for why his homework was late.
The student gave a trite excuse for why his homework was late.
Avoid using trite phrases like 'at the end of the day' in your formal essays.
Avoid using trite phrases like 'at the end of the day' in your formal essays.
His poetry was dismissed by critics as being too sentimental and inherently trite.
His poetry was dismissed by critics as being too sentimental and inherently trite.
