Definitions
- Describing an overused phrase or idea that has lost its originality or impact. - Referring to a cliche or trite expression that lacks creativity or freshness. - Talking about a common or predictable phrase or idea that has become stale or boring.
- Describing something that is unoriginal, lacking in creativity, or overly simplistic. - Referring to a commonplace or ordinary idea or expression that is not interesting or engaging. - Talking about a dull or predictable statement or idea that fails to capture attention or imagination.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that lacks originality or creativity.
- 2Both words refer to ideas or expressions that are predictable or uninteresting.
- 3Both words have negative connotations.
- 4Both words can be used to criticize writing, speech, or other forms of communication.
- 5Both words suggest a lack of effort or thoughtfulness.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Hackneyed is typically used to describe a phrase or idea that was once original but has become overused and stale, while banal describes something that was never original or creative to begin with.
- 2Connotation: Hackneyed suggests a lack of freshness or impact due to overuse, while banal suggests a lack of creativity or interest from the outset.
- 3Intensity: Hackneyed implies a stronger sense of weariness or annoyance than banal, which can be more neutral in tone.
- 4Frequency: Hackneyed is less common than banal in everyday language.
Remember this!
Hackneyed and banal are synonyms that describe ideas or expressions that lack originality or creativity. However, hackneyed suggests that the phrase or idea was once original but has become overused and stale, while banal suggests that the phrase or idea was never original or creative to begin with. Both words have negative connotations and can be used to criticize writing, speech, or other forms of communication.
