What does prosaicism mean?
Prosaicism is the noun for the quality of being prosaic: plain, literal, matter-of-fact, or insufficiently poetic. In literary criticism, it often describes prose that conveys ideas directly but lacks imagery, rhythm, subtlety, or emotional resonance. The term can also identify a writer's general preference for straightforward expression over elaborate or imaginative language. It is normally critical rather than neutral, suggesting that plainness has diminished the work rather than suited its purpose. The word is chiefly used in discussions of literature, poetry, rhetoric, and other forms of artistic expression, and is much less common in everyday conversation. Even when a work is intentionally direct, prosaicism usually implies that its plainness has become excessive or aesthetically limiting. For that reason, the term is especially useful in evaluating not only individual sentences but also the overall style and approach of a text.
nounThe quality or character of being prosaic, especially the use of plain, literal, or unadorned language in literature. It may also refer more generally to an excessive preference for plainness over imagination or poetic expression.
- The quality of being plain, literal, or insufficiently poetic, especially in literary language.
- A tendency or preference for plain or matter-of-fact expression over imaginative or elevated style.
"The critic dismissed the poem's prosaicism, arguing that its emotional directness left little room for lyric beauty."
"Her prosaicism suited the practical manual but blunted the force of the novel's emotional scenes."
"The lecture's relentless prosaicism made an abstract subject unexpectedly difficult to engage with."
The plural is rare because the word itself is uncommon.
"The essay explores the prosaicisms that can weaken otherwise compelling drama."
Prosaicism names the peculiar moment when a poem seems determined to explain rather than sing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does prosaicism come from?
Prosaicism was formed within English by adding the suffix -ism to prosaic, meaning “resembling prose” or “plain and unadorned.” The adjective prosaic comes from Latin prosa, meaning “prose” or “ordinary matter,” ultimately associated with a straightforward or forward-moving manner of expression. The related English word prose entered use in the Middle English period, while prosaic became established in the early modern period. The suffix -ism, of Greek origin, adds the sense of a characteristic, tendency, or style.
How prosaicism is actually used
Chiefly used in literary and artistic criticism, and generally carries a critical or disapproving connotation. It is uncommon in everyday speech.
Easily confused with prosaicism
Prosaic is primarily an adjective describing plain or unpoetic language, whereas prosaicism is the noun naming that quality or style.