The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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trite

adjective

/trʌɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of trite

Overused, clichéd, and lacking in originality, often to the point of becoming stale and uninteresting.
"She was accused of using trite arguments in her debate."

Detailed meaning of trite

When we characterize something as trite, we emphasize its tired, worn-out nature, suggesting that it has been repeated so frequently that it no longer holds any freshness or novelty. Trite phrases, ideas, or expressions are often seen as unoriginal and uninspiring, as they fail to engage or surprise due to their predictability and commonplace nature. This term conveys a sense of staleness and a lack of creativity, suggesting that the subject has lost its impact or appeal through excessive repetition and a failure to offer anything new or imaginative. Whether referring to expressions, themes, or concepts, "trite" implies a lack of originality or freshness, making it synonymous with clichéd or uninteresting ideas.

Example sentences containing trite

1. The critics labeled the movie as trite due to its clichéd plot.
2. Her writing, once fresh and innovative, had become trite and uninspiring.
3. The love story was trite, lacking originality and depth.
4. I was disheartened to see the same trite ideas in the new author's work.
5. They've repeated the same trite arguments, making the debate quite monotonous.
6. The trite dialogues of the play failed to evoke any real emotion in the audience.

History and etymology of trite

The adjective 'trite' has its etymological roots in the Middle English word 'trit,' which means 'worn out' or 'frayed.' This Middle English term can be traced back to the Old French word 'tritier,' meaning 'to rub or wear down.' Over time, 'trite' evolved to describe ideas, phrases, or expressions that have become so overused and worn down that they lack originality and freshness. It conveys the sense of something being clichéd and stale, often to the point of becoming uninteresting. Thus, the etymology of 'trite' underscores its use as an adjective to depict concepts or language that have been worn out through excessive repetition, resulting in a lack of novelty and appeal.

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Further usage examples of trite

1. His apology was trite, lacking any semblance of sincerity.
2. The trite nature of the marketing campaign made it indistinguishable from others.
3. To some, the popular trend quickly became trite and predictable.
4. The band's latest album was criticized for its trite lyrics and overused themes.
5. Although he was a seasoned speaker, his speech felt trite and dull.
6. The trite metaphors in her poetry led to lukewarm reviews.
7. His new artwork, once considered edgy, now seems trite and unremarkable.
8. The trite nature of the sitcom's humor had viewers switching channels.
9. Many feel that reality TV has become trite, recycling the same drama season after season.
10. Despite the high production value, the film's trite storyline was its downfall.
11. The novel was filled with trite phrases that detracted from its overall impact.
12. The pop star's trite public image failed to resonate with her fan base.
13. The trite motivational quotes in the self-help book made it hard to take seriously.
14. The dessert menu was trite, featuring the same old items you can find anywhere.
15. He found the jokes trite and unoriginal.
16. She was criticized for using trite phrases in her writing.
17. The company's advertising was seen as trite and uninspired.
18. He was known for using trite expressions in his speeches.
19. The group's music was criticized as being trite and unoriginal.
20. He was accused of using trite stereotypes in his comedy routine.
21. She was criticized for using trite plot lines in her novel.
22. The politician was accused of using trite slogans in his campaign.
23. He was criticized for using trite formulas in his films.
24. She was accused of using trite cliches in her photography.
25. The company's products were criticized as being trite and uninspired.
26. It was difficult to take her trite speech about love and world peace seriously.