1.
ordinary, commonplace, unremarkable, mediocre
Lacking distinction or special qualities. Describes something or someone that is average and does not stand out. Can be neutral or carry a slightly negative nuance depending on context.
平凡な毎日を送る。
To lead an ordinary daily life.
彼の成績は平凡だった。
His grades were average.
平凡に見えるこの町にも、探してみれば面白い歴史や文化が隠されている。
Even in this town that looks ordinary, if you look, you can find interesting history and culture hidden away.
STRUCTURE:
平 (flat, ordinary) + 凡 (common, mediocre).
FORMS:
- Predicate: 平凡だ / 平凡です
- Modifier: 平凡な + noun
- Adverb: 平凡に
USAGE:
平凡 can be neutral (simply meaning ordinary) or slightly negative (implying dull or mediocre), depending on context. When describing one's own life, it can carry a modest or even positive tone — the idea that a 平凡な幸せ (ordinary happiness) is something to appreciate. The antonym is 非凡 (extraordinary, exceptional).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 平凡な人生: an ordinary life
- 平凡な日常: ordinary daily life
- 平凡な暮らし: ordinary living
- 平凡な幸せ: ordinary happiness