Cool MateNormal
UK /["/ˈnɔːml/"]/US /["/ˈnɔːrml/"]/
Definition
typical, usual or ordinary; what you would expect
In simple words: What most people consider usual or average.
Examples
- It is normal to feel nervous before a big exam.
- In my opinion, their behavior was not normal.
- Eating three meals a day is considered normal.
- The weather is quite normal for this time of year.
- Many people have normal responses to stress.
- For a child his age, it's normal to ask a lot of questions.
- The doctor assured me that my healing process is normal.
Usage notes
Use 'normal' to describe things that are typical or expected. Avoid it in very formal writing where 'average' might be more suitable.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'norm' as the average line everyone follows.
Collocations
- normal behavior
- normal conditions
- normal temperature
- normal response
- normal life
Synonyms
- usual
- typical
- standard
- average
- customary
Antonyms
- abnormal
- unusual
- atypical
Common mistakes
- Using 'normal' to describe something good or bad without context.
- Confusing 'normal' with 'usual' — they have slight differences in meaning.
- Using 'normal' in overly formal situations.