Platitude | Definition, Meaning & Examples
A platitude is a statement that is overused and often lacks originality or depth. Phrases like “Everything happens for a reason” are intended to offer comfort but are often criticized for their superficiality. Although platitudes are considered poor writing, they can be found in everyday speech, social media, inspirational writing, or self-help books.
Live and let live
Time heals all wounds
Just follow your heart
Platitude definition
A platitude is a trite, obvious remark—in particular, one that is expressed as if it were deep and original. Platitudes are often moralistic and are criticised for oversimplifying complex topics.
The word “platitude” functions as a noun (e.g., “Her speech was full of platitudes”) and generally has a negative connotation. While a platitude shares similarities with clichés, it is inherently shallow and unoriginal from the beginning. The term platitude comes from the French word plat, meaning “flat,” reflecting its characteristic of being unremarkable or lacking depth.
Why do we use platitudes?
Despite their negative connotations, we often resort to platitudes for various reasons, such as:
- To offer solace or give advice. Banal expressions like “This too shall pass” or “Life goes on” provide a sense of comfort by offering simplistic explanations for complex situations, helping individuals cope with uncertainty or distress.
- To end conversations. By using simple phrases like “It is what it is” or “Let’s agree to disagree,” people can avoid difficult discussions. Although statements like these can help us end futile arguments, they also limit opportunities for deeper understanding and dialogue.
- To act as fillers in speeches or dialogues. Their safe and non-controversial nature makes platitudes a popular choice in social interactions. Stock phrases like “You’ll get through it” and “What’s done is done” can be a way to fill an awkward silence when faced with other people’s suffering. Additionally, they give the impression of wisdom or thoughtfulness, and for this reason they are frequently found in motivational talks and public speaking.
While often used with good intentions, platitudes can be problematic as they may invalidate others’ experiences or prevent deeper reflection on complex issues.
Platitude examples
The following table provides examples of platitudes, along with suggestions on what to say instead.
| Expression | Meaning | What to say instead |
|---|---|---|
| Such is life | Accept things as they are | Life doesn’t always make sense, but we can adapt |
| Just give it time | Things will improve eventually | Healing and progress take time, but they also need effort |
| Just think positive | A positive mindset will solve the problem | Staying hopeful is important, but it’s okay to feel how you feel |
| Don’t let it eat at you | Don’t dwell on your worries | Take your time to process this, but try not to let it define you |
| It’s for your own good | Difficult choices or actions can ultimately be beneficial | This might be hard now, but it could benefit you later |
| Look on the bright side | Focus on the positives in a negative situation | It’s hard to find positives in this, but they might be there |
| Nothing is impossible | Everything can be achieved with effort | Some things feel impossible, but small steps can make a difference |
| What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger | Difficulties help you build resilience | Struggles can change you, and sometimes they make you stronger |
Related terms
The following terms are closely associated with platitude but they differ in nuance and application:
- Adage: A concise and memorable saying that expresses an important truth. Adages are usually derived from experience or custom and are handed down through generations. “Make hay while the sun shines” is such an example. Unlike a platitude, which tends to feel overused or shallow, an adage retains its impact.
- Aphorism: A short, witty statement that conveys a principle or observation about life, usually ascribed to a specific person. Aphorisms are deliberate and thought-provoking, whereas platitudes lack depth or originality. A famous example of an aphorism is, “The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it,” by Oscar Wilde.
- Cliché: A worn-out expression that has lost its originality or impact due to excessive use, such as “To take stock of the situation.” Clichés can overlap with platitudes, but they are not limited to phrases; a theme, trope, character type, or plot device in a film or novel can also be called a cliché if it has lost its novelty due to overuse.
- Truism: A statement that is so self-evident it hardly needs to be said, such as “Patience is a virtue.” While truisms are undeniably true, platitudes are not necessarily true, or at least one could argue against them.
Frequently asked questions about platitude
- What is an empty platitude?
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An empty platitude is a statement or remark that is overused and lacks meaning. These phrases are often intended to comfort or encourage but do not offer genuine substance or originality. They are a type of cliché that may seem profound on the surface but provide no real insight or practical value.
For example, saying “Such is life” to someone who just lost their job would be an empty platitude. While meant to be comforting, it fails to acknowledge the person’s specific situation or offer any meaningful support or advice.
By definition, all platitudes are empty, but the phrase “empty platitude” is frequently used in both writing and speech.
- What is a platitude example?
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Examples of platitudes include:
- “Everything will work out in the end”
- “What’s done is done”
- “Happiness is a choice”
- “You just need to believe in yourself.”
- “Our thoughts and prayers go out to …”
- What is a synonym for platitude?
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Some synonyms and near-synonyms for platitude include:
For more synonyms for platitude, use QuillBot’s free Paraphraser.
- How do we use platitude in a sentence?
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Here are a few examples of how to use the word platitude in a sentence:
- “I was hoping for real advice, but all I got were empty platitudes about staying positive.”
- “The self-help book offered nothing but platitudes like “Follow your dreams” and “Be true to yourself.”
- “The politician’s speech was filled with platitudes about unity and hope, but it lacked any concrete plans for change.”
QuillBot’s Paraphraser can help you come up with the perfect wording for your sentences.
