Normal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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normal
[ˈnɔːməl ]
Definitions
everyday life
Conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. Not strange or abnormal.
Synonyms
regular, standard, typical, usual.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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normal |
Use 'normal' when referring to something that is average or expected under specific conditions.
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regular |
Use 'regular' when describing something that happens frequently and follows a pattern.
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usual |
Use 'usual' when something happens most of the time or is done in the customary way.
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standard |
Use 'standard' when referring to something that follows an established norm or is widely accepted.
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typical |
Use 'typical' to describe something that is characteristic or representative of its kind.
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Examples of usage
- It's perfectly normal to feel nervous before a job interview.
- Eating three meals a day is considered normal in many cultures.
psychology
A standard or pattern, especially of social behavior, that is typical or expected.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
normal |
Use 'normal' when referring to something that is typical or expected in most situations.
|
standard |
Use 'standard' when referring to an established level of quality or performance that is considered acceptable or desirable.
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norm |
Use 'norm' when referring to an accepted standard or way of behaving that most people in a society or group adhere to.
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convention |
Use 'convention' when referring to a traditional or widely accepted way of doing things within a particular context, often in social or professional settings.
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Examples of usage
- The concept of normal behavior varies across different cultures.
- She deviated from the normal and chose a career in art instead of law.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, 'normal' often refers to behaviors and feelings that are typical for a person or a group of people.
- Cultural norms can differ greatly, meaning what is considered 'normal' in one place may not be seen the same way in another.
Mathematics
- In statistics, 'normal' describes a specific type of distribution where most values cluster around an average.
- The normal distribution, often called the bell curve, is vital for understanding probabilities and patterns in data.
Pop Culture
- The term 'normal' has been used in various songs and films to discuss themes of fitting in versus being unique.
- TV shows often depict characters struggling with what is considered normal in society, which resonates with many viewers.
Sociology
- Social scientists study how what is deemed 'normal' can change over time and how different groups define their own norms.
- In some communities, 'normal' can include a rich variety of practices and values, highlighting diverse lifestyles.
Origin of 'normal'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'normal' comes from the Latin 'norma', meaning a carpenter's square, which symbolizes how things should align.
- In the late 15th century, it started being used to describe things that are standard or typical.
The word 'normal' originated from the Latin word 'normalis', meaning 'made according to a carpenter's square'. Over time, it evolved to refer to conforming to a standard or pattern. The concept of 'normal' has been heavily debated in various fields such as psychology, sociology, and philosophy, with different perspectives on what constitutes normal behavior or standards.
See also: enormous, norm, normlessness, norms.