Commonplaceness

Commonplaceness refers to the quality or state of being ordinary, unremarkable, and lacking originality or special interest. It encompasses a general lack of distinction, excitement, or novelty, residing in the realm of the familiar, the mundane, and the everyday. This state is characterized by a predictability, a lack of anything out of the ordinary, or a tendency to conform to established norms and conventions. Essentially, it's the opposite of uniqueness, innovation, or exceptionality, reflecting a pervasive sense of the usual and expected across various domains, from objects and events to ideas and experiences.

Commonplaceness meaning with examples

• The museum's collection, initially touted for its groundbreaking art, ultimately dissolved into a sea of commonplaceness. The pieces, lacking true originality, failed to captivate viewers and quickly fell out of favour. Critics cited a derivative approach as contributing to the sense of artistic redundancy, and the collection was eventually dismantled, leaving behind only whispers of what could have been.
• After decades of political stagnation, the nation sank deeper into commonplaceness. Election after election delivered the same parties and policies, leaving citizens jaded and disillusioned. Public discourse became repetitive and predictable, leaving no room for diverse opinions or genuine debate. This absence of change gradually stifled innovation and led to a widespread sense of apathy amongst the population.
• The author's latest novel suffered from an overwhelming sense of commonplaceness. While well-written, its plot was uninspired, borrowing heavily from familiar tropes and lacking any surprising twists. Readers found the characters bland and the setting predictable. The lack of originality led to a lukewarm reception and ultimately contributed to the book fading quickly from public awareness.
• Despite the city's rich history, its recent urban planning has been criticized for its commonplaceness. The new buildings lacked architectural flair, becoming a monotonous backdrop of concrete and glass. The streets, devoid of unique features, could be mistaken for any other city, resulting in a bland and forgettable cityscape. This lack of distinctive identity has detracted from the overall appeal.
• The corporate world, with its rigid hierarchies and emphasis on conformity, often cultivates commonplaceness. Innovation is stifled by a fear of challenging the status quo, resulting in standardized products and services. Creative ideas are often suppressed, and employees are often encouraged to adhere to a strict set of procedures. This stifles individuality and inhibits the potential for true breakthroughs.