ENGLISH
REFERENCE

stereotypical

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌstɛɹiəˈtɪpɪkəɫ// UK //stˌɛɹɪəʊtˈɪpɪkəl// stereo·typ·i·cal

adj. describing someone or something in a way that follows a fixed, often oversimplified idea that people have about them. It is used when something matches exactly what you would expect from a common group image.

adj. relating to a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. Often used to describe traits that conform to a conventional or hackneyed pattern.


SIMPLE

The movie features a stereotypical villain who wants to rule the world.

CONTEXTUAL

The advertisement was criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of a stay-at-home father who could not manage basic housework.

COMPLEX

While the protagonist begins as a stereotypical hard-boiled detective, the author gradually deconstructs these tropes to reveal a deeply vulnerable and unconventional character.

Synonyms
Origin

From stereotype + -ical.

Usage

Often used attributively before a noun; frequently carries a negative connotation of being unoriginal or unfair.

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