Cool MateAverage
UK /["/ˈævərɪdʒ/"]/US /["/ˈævərɪdʒ/"]/
Definition
calculated by adding several amounts together, finding a total, and dividing the total by the number of amounts
In simple words: Not special or better than others; typical.
Examples
- The average temperature in July is often quite high.
- He scored an average of 75 on his tests this semester.
- On average, people sleep about 8 hours a night.
- The average height of adult men varies by country.
- Her cooking skills are just average, nothing special.
Usage notes
Use 'average' to describe something that is typical or normal. Avoid it in formal writing when more specific terms are appropriate.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'average' as 'a range of value' — it shows the middle ground.
Collocations
- average score
- average temperature
- average person
- average performance
- average income
Synonyms
- typical
- mean
- standard
- ordinary
- mediocre
Antonyms
- exceptional
- unusual
- extraordinary
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'mean' — 'mean' can refer specifically to the mathematical average.
- Using 'average' when something is below standard — average means typical, not poor.