flat description

[/flæt dɪˈskrɪpʃən/]
nounpl: flat descriptions
descrição plana
1. A description that lacks depth, nuance, or emotional resonance; a superficial or one-dimensional account of something
The novel's flat description of the character made it difficult for readers to connect with her story.
A descrição plana da personagem no romance dificultou a conexão dos leitores com sua história.
2. In writing or art, a rendering that presents information in a literal, unembellished manner without vivid details or sensory elements
The travel guide offered only a flat description of the museum instead of capturing its grandeur.
O guia de viagem oferecia apenas uma descrição plana do museu em vez de capturar sua grandiosidade.
3. A straightforward, matter-of-fact account that lacks personality or stylistic flair
His flat description of the accident left out important emotional context.
Sua descrição plana do acidente omitiu contexto emocional importante.
The term 'flat description' is commonly used in literary criticism and creative writing workshops in both American and Brazilian contexts. In English-language literature classes, it's often used as constructive feedback to encourage writers to add more vivid imagery and sensory details. In Brazil, similar criticism in Portuguese emphasizes the need for 'descrições mais ricas' (richer descriptions) to engage readers more effectively.
NYC Slang
weak description, basic description (informal usage in casual conversation)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
bland descriptionbare descriptionsparse descriptioncolorless descriptiondull description
Antonyms / Antônimos
vivid descriptionrich descriptiondetailed descriptionelaborate descriptioncolorful description

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
descrição plana
Standard term used in literary criticism and general discourse
Portugal
descrição chata
Alternative phrasing more common in European Portuguese
Academic/Literary
descrição superficial
More formal academic usage in both Brazilian and European Portuguese

Related Words

descriptionnarrativecharacterizationexpositiondepictionportrayal

Related Idioms & Phrases

paint a flat picture
lack of color in description
tell it like it is (when deliberately flat)
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