TRITE Synonyms: 115 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'trite' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of trite are hackneyed , stereotyped , and threadbare . While all these words mean "lacking the freshness that evokes attention or interest," trite applies to a once effective phrase or idea spoiled from long familiarity. // "you win some, you lose some" is a trite expression

Q: When would 'hackneyed' be a good substitute for 'trite'?

While in some cases nearly identical to trite , hackneyed stresses being worn out by overuse so as to become dull and meaningless. // all of the metaphors and images in the poem are hackneyed

Q: When might 'stereotyped' be a better fit than 'trite'?

The words stereotyped and trite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stereotyped implies falling invariably into the same pattern or form. // views of minorities that are stereotyped and out-of-date

Q: When could 'threadbare' be used to replace 'trite'?

The words threadbare and trite can be used in similar contexts, but threadbare applies to what has been used until its possibilities of interest have been totally exhausted. // a mystery novel with a threadbare plot

trite

adjective

ˈtrīt

Definition of trite next

as in cliche

used or heard so often as to be dull the speaker offered disappointingly trite sentiments about embracing each challenge as an opportunity

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How does the adjective trite differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of trite are hackneyed, stereotyped, and threadbare. While all these words mean "lacking the freshness that evokes attention or interest," trite applies to a once effective phrase or idea spoiled from long familiarity.

"you win some, you lose some" is a trite expression

When would hackneyed be a good substitute for trite?

While in some cases nearly identical to trite, hackneyed stresses being worn out by overuse so as to become dull and meaningless.

all of the metaphors and images in the poem are hackneyed

When might stereotyped be a better fit than trite?

The words stereotyped and trite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stereotyped implies falling invariably into the same pattern or form.

views of minorities that are stereotyped and out-of-date

When could threadbare be used to replace trite?

The words threadbare and trite can be used in similar contexts, but threadbare applies to what has been used until its possibilities of interest have been totally exhausted.

a mystery novel with a threadbare plot

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of trite Her confidence turns the trite line into a power move. —

Jen Chaney, Vulture, 16 July 2024 One useful, if trite, function of trauma in fiction is to give characters depth. —

Judy Berman, TIME, 25 Oct. 2024 The thrill of meeting the players’ families and seeing their homes quickly dissipates in light of trite, safe insights into the existence of the NBA’s elite. —

Alison Herman, Variety, 9 Oct. 2024 Reflexa cements Danny Ocean as an artist who can deliver pop hits without having to rely on lyrics that are trite or borderline cheesy. —

Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 3 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for trite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for trite

Adjective

Founded by artists who grew up in Maryvale, Salcido said the purpose of Labor is to be the bridge that shows the artistic capacity and potential of Maryvale because the neighborhood is too often stereotyped, underrepresented and ignored.

David Ulloa Jr, The Arizona Republic, 6 Dec. 2024
Chicano artists also critically reexamined stereotyped figures, such as the pachuco and pachuca, and retold current and historic events through artworks that questioned hegemonic narratives.

Mary Thomas, ARTnews.com, 3 Sep. 2019