A2adjective 2K

Ordinary

UK /["/ˈɔːdnri/"]/ US /["/ˈɔːrdneri/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

not unusual or different in any way

Listen to definition

In simple words: Common or usual; not special or different.

Examples

• The ordinary day turned extraordinary with a surprise party.
• He doesn't want to lead an ordinary life; he dreams of adventure.
• The painting looked ordinary at first, but it had hidden details.
• For some, the ordinary tasks of daily life can feel overwhelming.
• She is not an ordinary student; she always excels at her studies.

Usage notes

Use 'ordinary' to describe things that are normal or average. Avoid in contexts where something is rare or exceptional.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'order' in 'ordinary' — it suggests having a regular, expected order.

Collocations

• be
• look
• seem
• very
• perfectly
• quite
• be
• look
• seem
• very
• perfectly
• quite

Synonyms

• common
• normal
• average
• typical
• standard

Antonyms

• extraordinary
• exceptional
• unusual

Common mistakes

• 'Ordinary' confused with 'extraordinary' — they are opposites.
• Using 'ordinary' to describe positive experiences may seem negative.
• Misusing 'ordinary' as a verb.