English vocabulary · C1
Platitude
/ˈplæt̬.ə.tuːd/ · n.
A platitude is a saying you hear so much that it gives you no help. It may be true, but adds no new thought to what you know.
Watch the Platitude lessonContinue in the learning app for video lessons and review.
Example sentences
- His platitude makes the bride cry.
- She leaves after Dad's platitude.
Word origin and roots
from French
- platitude — flatness (from French)
Synonyms and nuances
- CLICHE — an overused phrase (Said too often)
- TRUISM — an obvious truth (Already known)
- BROMIDE — a dull old saying (Empty comfort)
Similar words
- cliche
- truism
- bromide
- commonplace
- banality
Lesson notes
A platitude is a saying you hear so much that it gives you no help. It may be true, but adds no new thought to what you know.
Related: cliche, truism, bromide. Use platitude when words give no help.
His platitude makes the bride cry. She leaves after Dad's platitude.
From French. Platitude- means flatness. In English, flatness in the same old words makes a platitude.