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platitude

Noun

IPA /ˈplætɪtjuːd/

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Meaning in plain English

A familiar statement that sounds wise or helpful but has been repeated so often that it offers little real value.

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Pronunciation

platitude/ˈplætɪtjuːd/

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Compare

A familiar saying offers little useful help
Specific advice addresses the actual problem

A platitude sounds familiar but contributes little new thought or practical value.

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Examples in context

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When I needed practical help, his reply was just a platitude.
The speech relied on platitudes instead of explaining how the changes would work.

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When I needed practical help, his reply was just a ________.

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platitude — A familiar statement that sounds wise or helpful but has been repeated so often that it offers little real value.

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A familiar statement that sounds wise or helpful but has been repeated so often that it offers little real value.

Compare: When I needed practical help, his reply was just a platitude.

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Word origin

From French platitude, related to plat, meaning flat.

Did you know?

Platitude is disapproving because the statement feels empty or unoriginal in its context.

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