flat character

[/flæt ˈkærɪktər/]
nounpl: flat characters
personagem plano
1. A character in a narrative who lacks depth, complexity, and development; typically defined by a single trait or purpose and does not change significantly throughout the story
The villain in that action movie was a flat character with no motivation beyond destroying the hero.
O vilão daquele filme de ação era um personagem plano sem motivação além de destruir o herói.
2. A character who remains static and unchanging from beginning to end, serving primarily to support the plot rather than provide psychological insight
Critics argued that the supporting cast consisted entirely of flat characters that didn't enhance the narrative.
Os críticos argumentaram que o elenco de apoio consistia inteiramente em personagens planos que não melhoravam a narrativa.
The concept of 'flat character' is a fundamental term in literary criticism, widely taught in English and Portuguese literature courses. In Brazilian cinema and literature discussions, it's commonly used to critique poorly developed supporting characters in telenovelas and films. The term is neutral in academic contexts but can be pejorative when describing main characters, as it suggests lack of artistic depth.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
one-dimensional characterstock characterstatic characterarchetypal charactercardboard character
Antonyms / Antônimos
round charactercomplex characterdynamic characterthree-dimensional characterdeveloped character

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
personagem plano
Standard term used in literature criticism and academic contexts
Portugal
personagem plana
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; also used in academic and critical discussions
General usage
personagem sem profundidade
Alternative descriptive phrase meaning 'character without depth'
Academic/Literary
personagem estática
Emphasizes the lack of character development or change

Related Words

characterizationcharacter developmentprotagonistantagonistnarrativeliterary characterarchetype

Related Idioms & Phrases

cardboard cutout character
one-note character
walking stereotype
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