banal
8 synonyms and 2 antonyms for banal, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — So common and unoriginal that it is boring.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use banal
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
banal dialogue
banal remark
banal and predictable
Etymology
From French banal, originally describing something "held in common" under feudal service, later shifting to mean "unoriginal" or "commonplace."
Full origin of banal →Frequently asked questions
What does “banal” mean?
The word “banal” means so common and unoriginal that it is boring. In plain terms, dull and unoriginal because it has been said or done so many times before.
How do you pronounce “banal”?
“Banal” is pronounced buh-NAHL (/bəˈnɑːl/ in IPA).
How do you use “banal” in a sentence?
Here is “banal” used in a sentence: “The movie was full of banal dialogue and predictable twists.”
What part of speech is “banal”?
“Banal” is an adjective.
Where does the word “banal” come from?
The word “banal” comes from French. From French banal, originally describing something "held in common" under feudal service, later shifting to mean "unoriginal" or "commonplace.".
