Platitude

usgb/ˈplætɪtuːd/
noun

A comment or statement that sounds important but is overused and has no real value or originality.

Most people ignore the platitudes about hard work and just carry on with their lives.
Visual representation of "platitude" - A comment or statement that sounds important but is overused and has no real value or originality.

Often appears as...

  • utter a platitude
  • cliche platitude

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "platitude"
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Overused Expressions

Platitudes often sound meaningful but are so overused they've lost impact.

Illustration for Overused Expressions
Saying 'time heals all wounds' is just a platitude.
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Avoid in Writing

Using platitudes can make writing seem lazy or uninspired.

Illustration for Avoid in Writing
Her essay was marked down for its use of platitudes.
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Not Persuasive

A platitude won't usually persuade someone, as it lacks depth and originality.

Illustration for Not Persuasive
His argument was weak, relying on platitudes instead of facts.
Visual representation of the word "Platitude"

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