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bromide

noun/ˈbroʊ.maɪd/

definition

a trite or unoriginal idea or remark intended to soothe

example

Despite the challenging situation, his reassurance was just a bromide that failed to address the real issues at hand.

synonyms
platitudeclichébanality
word origin — The word 'bromide' originally referred to a type of chemical compound containing bromine, but in the late 19th century, it came to be used metaphorically to describe a soothing or calming remark.

GRE Vocabulary — Set 27

Set 27 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: bromide, jingoism, ennui, miasma, desuetude. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. bromide · noun/ˈbroʊ.maɪd/

    a trite or unoriginal idea or remark intended to soothe

    Despite the challenging situation, his reassurance was just a bromide that failed to address the real issues at hand.

    Synonyms: platitude, cliché, banality

    Origin: The word 'bromide' originally referred to a type of chemical compound containing bromine, but in the late 19th century, it came to be used metaphorically to describe a soothing or calming remark.

  2. jingoism · noun/ˈdʒɪŋɡoʊˌɪzəm/

    extreme patriotism characterized by aggressive foreign policy

    The politician's speech was filled with jingoism, rallying supporters with calls for aggressive military action against foreign adversaries.

    Synonyms: nationalism, chauvinism, patriotism

    Origin: The term 'jingoism' originated in the late 19th century from a British music hall song that contained the phrase 'By jingo!' expressing support for aggressive nationalism.

  3. ennui · noun/ɒnˈwi/

    a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement

    After a long period of isolation during the pandemic, she was overwhelmed by a sense of ennui that made even her favorite hobbies feel mundane.

    Synonyms: boredom, monotony, tedium

    Origin: French, from 'ennuyer' meaning 'to bore, annoy'

  4. miasma · noun/miˈæz.mə/

    a harmful or oppressive atmosphere or influence

    The city was enveloped in a miasma of corruption, stifling any efforts for reform and progress.

    Synonyms: fume, pollution, vibe

    Origin: from Greek 'miasma' meaning 'pollution' or 'blight'

  5. desuetude · noun/ˈdɛswɪtuːd/

    the state of being unused or no longer in effect

    The old law fell into desuetude after years of being ignored by the public and local authorities.

    Synonyms: disuse, inactivity, neglect

    Origin: from Latin 'desuetudo', from 'desuetus' (unaccustomed), from 'de-' (away from) + 'suetus' (used, accustomed)