While "banal" is typically used to describe something dull or lacking originality, its use in language and culture extends beyond mere critique. It is often used in discussions about mass media, where content is often criticized for being overly commercialized or lacking depth. The word highlights the tension between creativity and commodification in various forms of expression.
banal in Bengali বাংলা
banal in English
- banal⇄adv. banally.
- banal⇄banal, adjective.
not new or interesting; commonplace; trite.
Ex. Their conversation was banal, full of uninteresting remarks, such as ""nice weather"" and ""slow traffic today.""
(SYN) hackneyed.
banal in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
banal in Kannada ಕನ್ನಡ
banal in Sindhi سنڌي
Banal
Part of Speech
Adjective
Pronunciation
/bəˈnæl/
Definitions
- Devoid of freshness or originality; commonplace.
- Unoriginal, lacking in creativity or interest.
Usage Examples
- The movie was criticized for its banal plot and predictable characters.
- The decor in the office was so banal that it lacked any character.
Etymology
From the French word "banal," meaning common or ordinary, derived from "ban," meaning a decree or a right of a lord to require the use of his mill, which became associated with something that was commonplace or without originality. The word entered English in the 18th century.
Synonyms
- Trite
- Uninspired
- Hackneyed
- Commonplace
Antonyms
- Original
- Unique
- Innovative
- Creative
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Común | coh-MOON |
| French | Banale | ba-nahl |
| German | Banale | bah-nah-leh |
| Chinese | 平凡 | píng fán |
| Hindi | साधारण | sādhāraṇ |
| Arabic | مبتذل | mubtazal |
| Russian | банальный | banal'nyy |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
- American English: /bəˈnæl/
- British English: /bəˈnæl/
- Australian English: /bəˈnæl/
Historical Usage
The term "banal" was originally used in French in the 14th century, referring to something common or that belonged to everyone, like a shared right or privilege. Its usage evolved over time to denote something lacking in originality. By the 18th century, it was used in English to describe something dull or unoriginal.
Cultural Nuances
The term "banal" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that something is boring or unimaginative. It is frequently used in art, literature, and criticism to express disappointment with works or ideas that lack freshness or creativity. However, in some cultures, the concept of "banality" can be viewed as a reflection of accessibility and broad appeal, rather than a flaw.