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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
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 Vintage footage shows the guys hanging out in their suite at the Plaza, joking around with the film crew, doing phone interviews, responding with insouciant humor to inane questions in press encounters or cutting loose at the Peppermint Lounge. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for inane
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inane
Adjective
  • The Americans face Haiti in a meaningless group-stage match Sunday before awaiting their yet-unknown quarters foe. 6.
    Greg Cote June 22, Miami Herald, 22 June 2025
  • If the packaging is inaccessible, the exemption is meaningless.
    Bill Schiffmiller, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • This method works on other filters, like those of a tower fan, air purifier, or regular vacuum.
    Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2025
  • In addition to wiping down your nightstands, be sure to give your bedroom floor a good vacuum once per week, Varela says, noting that this can help with allergens and dust, too.
    Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • The point is to bring production back to California before the entertainment industry shrinks into nothingness.
    Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • As the soirée begins, the ladies trickle in—gowns, gossip, and all—and for those who missed the cooking class, Angela and Kelli are more than happy to fill in the blanks.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 22 June 2025
  • Tracing the Franklin expedition’s footsteps Past this point in the story, the record is dotted with blanks that can only be filled in by archaeological finds, Inuit oral histories and scant documentary evidence.
    Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • Not rehearsed behind closed doors—but tested in the open.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • The committee has been plagued by party infighting that has spilled out into the open in recent weeks, writes The Hill’s Julia Manchester.
    Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 23 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inane.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inane. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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