VocabDictionary
nounneutral connotation

Commonplace

An ordinary remark, idea, or matter that is lacking in originality or distinction.

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Synonyms by Register & Formality

Direct Synonyms (Strongest Match)
Formal & Academic Synonyms
Literary & Poetic Alternatives
Informal & Conversational

Antonyms & Opposites

Nuance Analysis & Word Contrasts

Use 'commonplace' when referring to an idea, remark, or event that is completely routine and devoid of fresh insight, without necessarily carrying the aggressive negative judgment of 'cliché' or the moralistic weight of 'platitude'. While a platitude specifically implies a worn-out moral observation, a commonplace simply denotes a statement of fact or opinion that has been repeated so often it has lost all rhetorical impact.

commonplace vs platitude

A commonplace is merely an ordinary, unremarkable statement lacking originality, whereas a platitude specifically takes the form of a dull, moralizing remark offered as if it were profound.

commonplace vs cliché

A commonplace refers broadly to any routine idea or everyday expression, whereas a cliché usually denotes a specific phrase or artistic trope that has been worn out by excessive overuse.