Bromide

usgb/ˈbrəʊmaɪd/
noun

A plain or obvious saying that is intended to be wise advice but is often not very original or interesting.

He offered the bromide: 'Be careful what you wish for.'
Visual representation of "bromide" - A plain or obvious saying that is intended to be wise advice but is often not very original or interesting

Often appears as...

  • 'utter a bromide'
  • 'offer a bromide'
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "bromide"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Overused Wisdom

Use 'bromide' to describe dull, obvious advice that lacks depth.

Illustration for Overused Wisdom
His speech was full of bromides that bored the audience.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Avoid in Novels

'Bromide' implies the author uses unoriginal expressions. Good for critiques.

Illustration for Avoid in Novels
The novel was criticized for its use of bromides instead of fresh dialogue.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversational Caution

Don't use 'bromide' in everyday conversation; it can seem pretentious or insulting.

Illustration for Conversational Caution
Calling someone's advice a bromide might offend them.
Visual representation of the word "Bromide"

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