Are you tired of using the same old words to describe something that is boring or unoriginal? Do you find yourself using the words “banal” and “platitude” interchangeably? While these two words may seem similar, they have distinct meanings that are often overlooked. In this article, we will explore the differences between banality and platitude and how to use them correctly in your writing.
Let’s define these two words. Banality refers to something that is unoriginal, boring, or lacking in originality. It can also refer to something that is commonplace or predictable. On the other hand, a platitude is a trite or overused expression that lacks originality or depth. It is a statement that is often used without much thought or meaning behind it.
So, which of these two words is the proper word to use? The answer is both. While banality and platitude are similar in meaning, they are not interchangeable. Banality refers to something that is unoriginal or lacking in creativity, while a platitude is a specific type of banal expression that is overused and lacks depth.
Now that we have a better understanding of these two words, let’s explore how to use them in your writing. By understanding the differences between banality and platitude, you can avoid using them interchangeably and add more depth and originality to your writing. In the following sections, we will explore examples of banality and platitudes and how to avoid them in your writing.
Define Banality
Banality refers to the quality of being unoriginal, mundane, or lacking in originality or creativity. It is characterized by a lack of imagination or novelty, resulting in something that is trite, clichéd, or predictable. Banal statements or ideas are often seen as uninteresting, boring, or uninspiring, and they fail to capture the attention or imagination of the audience.
Some examples of banal statements include:
- “Life is short.”
- “Actions speak louder than words.”
- “Time heals all wounds.”
These statements are considered banal because they are overused, lack originality, and fail to offer any new insights or perspectives on the topic.
Define Platitude
A platitude is a statement or idea that is considered to be true but has been overused to the point of becoming meaningless or trite. It is a clichéd expression or idea that is often used to fill space or sound profound, but it lacks substance or originality.
Platitudes are often used in speeches, writing, and everyday conversation, but they can be harmful because they fail to offer any real insight or solutions to problems. Instead, they provide a false sense of comfort or wisdom, which can prevent people from seeking real solutions to their problems.
Some examples of platitudes include:
- “Everything happens for a reason.”
- “It is what it is.”
- “Follow your dreams.”
These statements are considered platitudes because they are often used to offer comfort or advice without providing any real solutions or insights into the problems people face.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence can make a huge difference in how your message is received. In this section, we will explore how to use the words “banality” and “platitude” in a sentence.
How To Use “Banality” In A Sentence
“Banality” refers to something that is unoriginal, boring, or lacking in originality. Here are some examples of how to use “banality” in a sentence:
- The speech was full of banalities and lacked any real substance.
- Her writing was criticized for its banality and lack of creativity.
- The movie was a disappointment, with a banal plot and predictable ending.
When using “banality” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the word is used appropriately. Avoid using it in a way that could be misconstrued or misinterpreted.
How To Use “Platitude” In A Sentence
“Platitude” refers to a trite or overused statement that lacks originality or depth. Here are some examples of how to use “platitude” in a sentence:
- The politician’s speech was full of platitudes and lacked any real substance.
- Her advice was nothing more than a series of platitudes that offered no real solutions.
- The coach’s pep talk was filled with platitudes and lacked any real motivation.
When using “platitude” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context is clear and that the word is used appropriately. Avoid using it in a way that could be misconstrued or misinterpreted.
More Examples Of Banality & Platitude Used In Sentences
In this section, we will provide more examples of how banality and platitude are used in sentences. Banality refers to a statement or idea that is unoriginal and lacks creativity, while platitude refers to a statement or idea that is overused and lacks depth.
Examples Of Using Banality In A Sentence
- “It is what it is.”
- “Everything happens for a reason.”
- “Time heals all wounds.”
- “Life is too short.”
- “Actions speak louder than words.”
- “You only live once.”
- “It’s not rocket science.”
- “There’s no place like home.”
- “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”
- “All’s fair in love and war.”
These sentences are examples of banality because they are cliched and lack originality. They are often used in everyday conversation, but they do not contribute anything new or insightful.
Examples Of Using Platitude In A Sentence
- “Follow your dreams.”
- “Believe in yourself.”
- “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
- “Live, laugh, love.”
- “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.”
- “Everything happens for a reason.”
- “Life is too short to waste time on things that don’t matter.”
- “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
- “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
- “Happiness is a choice.”
These sentences are examples of platitudes because they are overused and lack depth. While they may sound inspiring or motivational, they do not offer any new insights or perspectives. They are often used in self-help books, motivational speeches, and social media posts.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to writing, it’s easy to fall into the trap of using banality and platitude interchangeably. However, these two terms have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using Banalities As Platitudes
A common mistake is to use banalities as platitudes. Banalities are overused phrases or expressions that lack originality or freshness, while platitudes are statements that are superficially true or obvious. For example, “think outside the box” is a banality that has been used so often that it has lost its originality and impact. However, “hard work pays off” is a platitude that is true, but lacks depth and nuance. Using banalities as platitudes can make your writing seem cliché and unoriginal.
Using Platitudes As Banalities
Another common mistake is to use platitudes as banalities. Platitudes are statements that are superficially true or obvious, but lack depth and nuance. Banalities, on the other hand, are overused phrases or expressions that lack originality or freshness. For example, “be yourself” is a platitude that is often used to encourage individuality, but it can also be a banality if it is used too often and without context. Using platitudes as banalities can make your writing seem insincere and lacking in substance.
Not Providing Context
A common mistake when using banalities and platitudes is not providing context. Both banalities and platitudes can be effective when used in the right context. For example, “less is more” can be a powerful statement when used in the context of minimalist design, but it can also be a banality if used in the wrong context. Providing context can help you avoid using banalities and platitudes inappropriately.
Offering Tips To Avoid Mistakes
To avoid making these mistakes in your writing, here are some tips:
- Use banalities sparingly and only when they are appropriate for the context
- Avoid using platitudes as a substitute for thoughtful analysis and original thinking
- Provide context for banalities and platitudes to ensure they are used effectively
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between banality and platitude, context can make all the difference. While both can be used to convey a sense of familiarity or comfort, the choice between the two can depend on the specific context in which they are being used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between banality and platitude might change:
1. Personal Conversations
In personal conversations, banal phrases such as “how are you?” or “nice to see you” can be used to establish a sense of comfort and familiarity. However, in certain contexts such as a funeral or a job interview, these phrases can come across as platitudes and insensitive.
2. Marketing Copy
In marketing copy, banal phrases such as “we’re the best” or “we have the lowest prices” can be used to establish a sense of reliability and trust. However, in certain contexts such as a luxury brand or a high-end product, these phrases can come across as platitudes and lacking in substance.
3. Political Speeches
In political speeches, banal phrases such as “we need change” or “let’s come together” can be used to establish a sense of unity and common purpose. However, in certain contexts such as a divisive issue or a controversial topic, these phrases can come across as platitudes and lacking in meaningful action.
Overall, the choice between banality and platitude can depend on a variety of factors such as the audience, the context, and the specific message being conveyed. By understanding these nuances, we can better communicate with others and avoid coming across as insincere or lacking in substance.
Exceptions To The Rules
While there are general rules for using banality and platitude in writing, there are some exceptions where these rules might not apply. In such cases, it is important to identify these exceptions and understand why they might be applicable.
Exceptions For Banality
One exception to the rule of avoiding banality is when it is used for emphasis or to create a sense of familiarity with the reader. For example, using a common phrase like “it’s raining cats and dogs” might be appropriate in a casual blog post or personal email, where the writer is trying to connect with the reader on a more personal level.
Another exception is when banality is used ironically or satirically. In this case, the writer is intentionally using a cliché or overused phrase to make a point or convey a particular tone. For instance, a writer might use the phrase “at the end of the day” to mock the overuse of this phrase in corporate jargon.
Exceptions For Platitude
One exception to the rule of avoiding platitudes is when they are used to convey a universal truth or wisdom. For example, the phrase “honesty is the best policy” might be appropriate in a piece of writing that is meant to offer advice or guidance to readers.
Another exception is when platitudes are used in a way that is intentionally ironic or subversive. In this case, the writer is using a common phrase in a way that subverts its original meaning or intent. For instance, the phrase “follow your dreams” might be used ironically in a piece of writing that is meant to critique the idea that everyone can achieve their dreams if they just work hard enough.
| Exceptions for Banality | Exceptions for Platitude |
|---|---|
| Used for emphasis or familiarity | Convey universal truth or wisdom |
| Used ironically or satirically | Used ironically or subversively |
It is important to note that while these exceptions exist, they should be used sparingly and with intention. Overusing banality or platitudes, even in these exceptional cases, can still lead to writing that is clichéd or unoriginal.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between banality and platitude, let’s put our knowledge into practice. Below are some exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of these two concepts in sentences. Each exercise comes with an answer key or explanation, so you can check your work and learn from any mistakes you may make.
Exercise 1: Banality Or Platitude?
For each of the following sentences, determine whether it is an example of banality or platitude.
| Sentence | Answer |
|---|---|
| Life is short, so make the most of it. | Platitude |
| The sky is blue. | Banality |
| Love conquers all. | Platitude |
| The grass is always greener on the other side. | Platitude |
| She was as pretty as a picture. | Banality |
Explanation: A platitude is a trite or overused statement, often used to sound profound or wise. A banality is a statement that is obvious or uninteresting. In the above exercise, sentences 1, 3, 4 are platitudes, while sentences 2 and 5 are banalities.
Exercise 2: Banal Or Profound?
For each of the following sentences, determine whether it is an example of banality or profoundness.
- The sun rises in the east.
- Life is a journey, not a destination.
- Water is essential for life.
- Love is a many-splendored thing.
- Time heals all wounds.
Explanation: A profound statement is one that is insightful or meaningful. A banal statement is one that is unoriginal or obvious. In the above exercise, sentences 1, 3, and 4 are banal, while sentences 2 and 5 are profound.
Exercise 3: Rewrite The Platitudes
Take the following platitudes and rewrite them to make them more original or insightful.
- Actions speak louder than words.
- Everything happens for a reason.
- Follow your dreams.
Answer:
- Deeds resonate more than declarations.
- Every event has a cause, but it’s up to us to make meaning of them.
- Pursue your aspirations with tenacity and creativity.
Explanation: Rewriting platitudes can help us avoid using cliché phrases and instead express ourselves in a more original and thoughtful way.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between banality and platitude, it is clear that these two terms are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings. Banality refers to something that is unoriginal or lacking in creativity, while a platitude is a statement that is overused and lacks depth.
It is important to be aware of these differences when communicating in both written and spoken forms. By avoiding banal language and platitudes, we can elevate our writing and speech to a more sophisticated level.
Key Takeaways
- Banality refers to something that is unoriginal or lacking in creativity.
- A platitude is a statement that is overused and lacks depth.
- Avoiding banal language and platitudes can elevate our writing and speech to a more sophisticated level.
Remember, using unique and thoughtful language can make a significant impact on the effectiveness of our communication. Continue to learn about grammar and language use to improve your writing and speech.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.