Definition

Not new or different; lacking creativity or freshness.

Example

The movie was criticized for its unoriginal plot and predictable ending.

Conversation

I just watched that new movie everyone is talking about.

Oh really? Was it good?

Not really, it felt so unoriginal and predictable.

Yeah, I hate when movies do that; it makes them less enjoyable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unoriginal → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "original" (from Latin "originem", meaning beginning or source). The word "unoriginal" means not being original or lacking uniqueness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'beginning' or 'source' ('origin') — that's why unoriginal means lacking originality.

Visually Confused Words