Basic Details
Word: Banal
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is very ordinary, unoriginal, or lacking in freshness or excitement.
Synonyms: Trite, dull, clichd
Antonyms: Original, innovative, unique
Idioms and Phrases
- Banal conversation: A discussion that lacks depth or excitement. Example: "The meeting was filled with banal conversations that didn't lead us anywhere."
- Banal as a supermarket flyer: Used to describe something overly common and uninspiring. Example: "His speech was banal as a supermarket flyer; it failed to capture anyone's interest."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The artist's latest painting was criticised for being banal and lacking creativity.
Example 2: After watching the movie, I felt it was just another banal romantic comedy with no surprises.
Example 3: The book received poor reviews because its plot was considered banal and predictable.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "banal" originates from the Old French word "ban," which referred to something that was common or shared among the nobility in medieval times? Today, it is often used to describe things that are unremarkable or unexciting.
Famous Quote
"The great enemy of clear language is insincerity." - George Orwell (often referring to the concept of banal language).
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "banal" mean?
a) Very exciting
b) Lacking originality
c) Highly creative
d) Extremely rare
Answer: b) Lacking originality
2. Which of these is a synonym of "banal"?
a) Innovative
b) Trite
c) Unique
d) Extraordinary
Answer: b) Trite
3. Which word is an antonym of "banal"?
a) Common
b) Original
c) Dull
d) Tedious
Answer: b) Original
4. Which sentence uses "banal" correctly?
a) The bannal party was filled with people who danced all night
b) Her banal remarks about the weather made the conversation quite dull.
c) His idea was so banal that everyone wanted to invest in it.
d) The banal flowers bloomed in every garden.
Answer: b) Her banal remarks about the weather made the conversation quite dull.
5. What does the phrase "banal conversation" refer to?
a) A thrilling debate
b) An inspiring discussion
c) A dull and unoriginal talk
d) A unique story
Answer: c) A dull and unoriginal talk
