Garden-variety

Referring to something ordinary, commonplace, or typical; lacking special or distinctive features. This adjective describes things that are considered standard, usual, or not particularly noteworthy. It suggests a familiar, easily recognizable form, often associated with everyday experiences or items. The term implies a lack of novelty or exceptional qualities, aligning with what is frequently encountered. A garden-variety item blends seamlessly into its environment, appearing unremarkable and predictable. It's the type of thing one sees or experiences regularly, without prompting any strong emotional reaction due to its inherent simplicity. This makes it an excellent descriptor for things that are easily accessible and readily understandable.

Garden-variety meaning with examples

• The detective quickly realized the crime was a garden-variety robbery, the motive being financial gain. Nothing remarkable or unusual, just a plain, everyday occurrence. The investigation centered on tracking down the typical tools and methods often used in such common thefts. The witnesses described the criminal as an average build and a garden-variety disguise.
• The restaurant offered a garden-variety menu, featuring standard American dishes. There were no exotic options or experimental concoctions on the menu. It was what one would expect to find in any local diner. The food catered to familiar tastes. A standard and garden-variety appetizer of fries and burgers was quickly ordered.
• Despite the initial hype, the film turned out to be a garden-variety romantic comedy with predictable plot points. Nothing really took place, and the humor was stale and lacked any sort of appeal. The characters were relatable but underdeveloped, following the typical arc. The ending was also a predictable garden-variety type.
• He endured a garden-variety cold during the winter. Nothing particularly dangerous or unique about this type of common ailment. He merely stayed home to recuperate with typical home remedies and standard comfort food. It was the kind of cold everyone had during this season.
• She received a garden-variety rejection letter after applying for the job. Not surprising, the type of repsonse received was usual. The standard format and tone were uninteresting and impersonal. She understood this to be a familiar occurrence within the competitive job market.