Prosaic Meaning and Definition
Prosaic
Pronunciation
/prəˈseɪɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Characteristic of or resembling prose; lacking the qualities of poetry or dramatic excitement; ordinary and uninspiring.
Examples
- His prosaic style made his writing seem dull and uninteresting.
- The prosaic details of their daily routine were not very exciting.
Synonyms
- Ordinary
- Uninspired
- Dull
Antonyms
- Poetic
- Exciting
- Unique
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word “prosaikos,” meaning “of or relating to prose,” and from the Latin word “prosaicus,” meaning “of prose.” The word has been used in English since the 17th century.
Usage Notes
The word “prosaic” is often used to describe writing, speech, or ideas that are plain and lacking in style or creativity. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense to describe something that is ordinary or routine.
Cultural References
The word “prosaic” has been referenced in literature and music, often to describe something that is mundane or lacking in excitement. For example, in James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses,” the character Stephen Dedalus describes a prosaic moment in his daily routine.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Prosaic wisdom” – ordinary and practical wisdom
- “Prosaic humor” – plain and unexciting humor
Related Words or Phrases
- Monotonous
- Humdrum
- Unremarkable
Collocations
- prosaic life
- prosaic writing
- prosaic speech
Frequency of Use
The word “prosaic” is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is often found in literary and critical writing to describe the qualities of writing or ideas.
Common Misspellings
- _prostice
- prasic