banal
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “banal” mean?
adjective.so lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in contexts discussing art, literature, or creative expression, highlighting a lack of innovation or depth. It emphasizes the dullness that results from predictable and overused ideas, distinguishing itself from similar terms like "mediocre," which suggests average quality without necessarily implying a lack of originality.
Common Confusions
Banal implies a complete lack of originality and creativity, while mediocre usually suggests average quality without necessarily indicating dullness or predictability.
Do not choose banal if the context emphasizes uniqueness or creativity rather than being so lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.
Example Sentences
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The speech was so banal that half the audience fell asleep.
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The banal conversation about weather lasted for an uncomfortably long time.