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inane

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word inane distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of inane are banal, flat, insipid, jejune, and vapid. While all these words mean "devoid of qualities that make for spirit and character," inane implies a lack of any significant or convincing quality.

an inane interpretation of the play

Where would banal be a reasonable alternative to inane?

Although the words banal and inane have much in common, banal stresses the complete absence of freshness, novelty, or immediacy.

a banal tale of unrequited love

When could flat be used to replace inane?

The words flat and inane are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to things that have lost their sparkle or zest.

although well-regarded in its day, the novel now seems flat

In what contexts can insipid take the place of inane?

In some situations, the words insipid and inane are roughly equivalent. However, insipid implies a lack of sufficient taste or savor to please or interest.

an insipid romance with platitudes on every page

When might jejune be a better fit than inane?

While in some cases nearly identical to inane, jejune suggests a lack of rewarding or satisfying substance.

a jejune and gassy speech

When can vapid be used instead of inane?

While the synonyms vapid and inane are close in meaning, vapid suggests a lack of liveliness, force, or spirit.

an exciting story given a vapid treatment

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of inane
Adjective
However, even his uptempo contributions border on the inane. Jon O'Brien, Billboard, 23 Mar. 2022 HBO Max's row, although not listed as sponsored, suffers from the same inane, baseless content recommendations. Corey Gaskin, Ars Technica, 2 Feb. 2022
Noun
For now, Abigail is a pariah in her town and her school, facing discrimination both inane (locker vandalism, unsympathetic teachers) and terrifying (physical threats, a targeted bathroom ban). Emma Sarappo, The Atlantic, 24 Mar. 2025 Post Malone, who closed out the festival Sunday night, has a more legible personality, but songs that are just as anonymous and perhaps even more inane. Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inane
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inane
Adjective
  • The most likely candidates for an add would be the 2024 seventh-round pick Hanson or Driskell, but neither had an offensive snap last season outside of the team’s meaningless week 18 game against Denver.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2025
  • Choose one, and land in a place that reduces the number of meaningless games for a conference that plays more Group of Five and FCS cupcakes than any other Power Four league.
    Blake Toppmeyer, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Noun
  • Use a wet/dry vacuum with a piece of mesh over the inlet to suck them up.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 11 July 2025
  • And that’s precisely what one shopper is saying about the Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, a popular vacuum that has sold 30,000 times in the past month.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • At nearly 60, a life of nothingness without love — what is the point?
    Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 12 July 2025
  • Shauna then spies a swarm of moths attracted to a fluorescent light in the ceiling, dooming themselves to fly toward nothingness again and again and again.
    Erin Qualey, Vulture, 28 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • People start filling in the blanks with their own assumptions.
    Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
  • His shop became the hub where surfboard shapers – both professionals and hobbyists – from San Diego to the South Bay and beyond bought foam blanks and the supplies needed for their craft.
    Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • Up next: There are no major earnings after Monday’s closing bell or before Tuesday’s open.
    Jeff Marks,Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 7 July 2025
  • Not rehearsed behind closed doors—but tested in the open.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inane.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inane. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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