Normally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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normally

[ˈnɔːməli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in daily life

In a normal or usual manner; typically.

Synonyms

commonly, typically, usually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
normally

Used in most cases or situations, typically referring to what is considered standard or expected. It implies a routine or regular pattern.

  • Normally, I wake up at 7 AM
  • Students normally submit their assignments online
usually

Used to refer to an event or action that happens in the majority of situations, reflecting a general trend or habit.

  • She usually goes to the gym after work
  • The train is usually late in the morning
typically

Used to describe a characteristic or behavior that is usual or expected for a person, group, or thing. Often implies a defining trait or habit.

  • Summer is typically hot in this region
  • Typically, he spends weekends working in his garden
commonly

Used to describe something that happens often or is widespread among many people or situations. It refers to something that is done by most people.

  • This plant is commonly found in tropical regions
  • It's commonly believed that healthy eating improves overall well-being

Examples of usage

  • She normally arrives at work by 9 a.m.
  • I normally go for a run in the evening.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a standard way

According to a regular pattern or rule.

Synonyms

consistently, customarily, regularly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
normally

Use 'normally' to describe something that happens under usual or typical conditions.

  • He normally walks to work, but today he took the bus
  • The weather is normally mild in spring
regularly

Use 'regularly' to describe actions that happen at regular intervals or repeatedly over a period of time.

  • She exercises regularly to stay fit
  • They meet regularly to discuss the project's progress
consistently

Use 'consistently' to describe actions or behaviors that occur in the same way and without variation.

  • She consistently arrives at work early
  • The team performs consistently well in every match
customarily

Use 'customarily' to describe actions that are done according to established customs or traditions.

  • New Year's Eve is customarily celebrated with fireworks
  • It is customarily polite to shake hands when meeting someone

Examples of usage

  • Payments are normally made on the first of the month.
  • The system normally functions without any issues.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, behaviors considered 'normal' can vary greatly between cultures, showing how society influences our perceptions.
  • The concept of normalcy is often used to describe mental health; what is considered normal can vary widely among different populations.

Science

  • In statistics, values that are 'normal' often follow a bell curve distribution, which is key in understanding data trends.
  • Normal temperature for humans is generally around 98.6°F (37°C), but healthy ranges can vary slightly from person to person.

Pop Culture

  • In the popular TV series 'Friends,' the character Ross often quips about wanting things to be 'normal,' showing a humorous take on the quest for stability.
  • The term has been used in various songs to highlight the contrast between ordinary life and the chaos of individual experiences.

Sociology

  • Sociologists study what is considered normal behavior within different societies to understand social norms and values.
  • The idea of 'normal' is often challenged in the context of social movements advocating for diversity and acceptance of differences.

Origin of 'normally'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'normalis,' meaning 'made according to a carpenter's square,' which denoted something that was regular or standard.
  • First appeared in English in the mid-19th century, primarily to describe standards of behavior or conditions.

The word 'normally' originated in the mid-19th century from the combination of 'normal' and the suffix '-ly', which is used to form adverbs from adjectives. 'Normal' itself comes from the Latin word 'normalis', meaning 'made according to a carpenter's square'. Over time, 'normally' has become a commonly used adverb to describe actions or situations that conform to a standard or usual pattern.


See also: abnormal, abnormality, normalcy, normality, normalization, normalize, normalizer, paranormal, supernormal.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,365, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.