commonplace

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a trite or obvious remark
  2. adjective completely ordinary and unremarkable
  3. adjective not challenging; dull and lacking excitement

Etymology

A calque of Latin locus commūnis, referring to a generally applicable literary passage, itself a calque of Ancient Greek κοινὸς τόπος (koinòs tópos).

In classic literature

Synonyms

platitude, cliche, banality, bromide

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