The word "white-bread" is an adjective used to describe something that is typical of or representative of the white middle class, especially in America. It can refer to people, places, or things that are seen as conventional, mainstream, or lacking in diversity.
Simple Explanation:
Usage Instructions:
Examples:
"She comes from a white-bread suburb where everyone knows each other and life is very predictable."
"The movie was entertaining, but it felt a bit white-bread; it didn’t take any risks with the story."
Advanced Usage:
In discussions about culture or social dynamics, "white-bread" can be used to critique the lack of variety or excitement in certain environments. For example, you might say, "The festival was very white-bread, focusing only on mainstream music and ignoring diverse genres."
Word Variants:
Different Meanings:
Besides its cultural connotation, "white-bread" can literally refer to the type of bread made from refined flour, which is white in color. However, this is less common in usage compared to the cultural meaning.
Synonyms:
Mainstream
Conventional
Unadventurous
Bland
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that incorporate "white-bread," but you might hear phrases like "playing it safe," which can describe a similar mindset of avoiding risks and sticking to what is familiar.
Summary:
In summary, when you hear the term "white-bread," think about something or someone that is very ordinary, typical of middle-class life in America, and possibly lacking in excitement or diversity.