Definition

Referring to works that are not considered literature, such as letters or diaries, and often lacking artistic or literary quality.

Example

The author's subliterary pieces provide insight into their personal life but are not meant for literary acclaim.

Conversation

Have you ever read anything subliterary?

Not really, what do you mean by that?

I mean like letters or diaries that aren’t meant to be great literature.

Oh, I get it! Those can be really interesting in their own way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subliterary → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "literary" (from Latin "literarius", meaning relating to letters or literature). The word "subliterary" refers to works that are considered to be beneath the standard of literary quality or not fully recognized as literature.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') the usual standards of 'literature' — that's what subliterary means.

Visually Confused Words