Platitude

Noun

Definition: A trite or banal statement, typically expressing a moral principle or general truth, that lacks originality or depth.

Synonyms: Cliché, Truism, Commonplace

Antonyms: Originality, Uniqueness, Profundity

Examples:
  • The motivational speaker's speech was filled with platitudes and lacked substance.
  • He constantly spouts off platitudes without truly understanding their meaning.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "plat" as in flat or dull, which connects to the concept of a platitude being a trite statement.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "platitude" originated from the French word "plat," meaning "flat" or "dull."

Historical Usage:

The term was first recorded in English in the early 19th century and gained popularity as a term used to criticize clichéd or unoriginal expressions.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Spouting platitudes"

Explanation:

Refers to someone repetitively expressing trite or banal statements without any meaningful substance.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing a platitude with a genuine expression of sentiment.

Explanation:

While some statements may seem like platitudes, it is essential to distinguish between shallow clichés and sincere, heartfelt expressions. A platitude is characterized by its lack of originality and depth.

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