What does platitude mean?
A platitude is a familiar statement or idea that has been repeated so often that it conveys little freshness or insight. The term is commonly used to criticize speeches, articles, advertising slogans, and conversations that rely on broad, predictable observations rather than precise or original thought. A platitude may still be true—indeed, many platitudes contain accurate ideas—but its wording and content are regarded as unoriginal or vacuous. For example, the claim that “practice makes perfect” is widely understood and often true, yet repeated without context it can function as a platitude. The word is more intellectually critical than “cliché,” suggesting not merely a familiar expression but one that has become dull through repetition. It is also often used with words such as “empty,” “collection,” and “full,” as in “a speech full of platitudes.”
nounA platitude is a remark or idea that is so common and unoriginal that it has little value or interest. It often expresses a general truth in a familiar, predictable, or ineffective way.
- A remark or idea that is overused, unoriginal, and regarded as having little value or significance.
"His speech was filled with platitudes about hard work and perseverance."
"The motivational poster offered little more than a string of familiar platitudes."
"Her novel is compelling because it replaces easy platitudes with difficult questions about responsibility."
The plural is used when referring to several familiar, unoriginal, or meaningless remarks or ideas.
"Listeners quickly grew tired of the candidate's platitudes."
A platitude can contain a truth so familiar that hearing it feels like encountering an old coat at the back of the wardrobe.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does platitude come from?
The word entered English in the early nineteenth century from French platitude, meaning flatness or lack of elevation. It ultimately derives from Latin platitudo, a noun formed from the same source associated with words relating to breadth or flatness. The modern figurative sense developed from the idea of a remark that is flat, dull, and lacking elevation.
Related word forms
How platitude is actually used
Platitude is chiefly used in a critical or dismissive register, especially for writing or speech that relies on familiar generalities. It is more specific than simply calling something boring, since it emphasizes a lack of originality rather than poor quality in general.
Easily confused with platitude
A platitude is a trite or unoriginal remark, whereas a plateau is a relatively level area of land or a period of stable development.