Synonyms for

Ordinary

Verb / ˈɔ:rdʌˌneri: / Another word for ordinary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Ordinary means normal or usual. It describes something that is not special or different from what is expected.

Synonyms & similar words

extraordinary ordinarybicycle average typical common regular usual average plain mundane everyday normal routine standard conventional unremarkable familiar predictable habitual simple plain unexceptional expected

Synonyms by register

Formal

commonplace standard typical conventional

Informal

regular everyday plain normal

Literary

prosaic mundane humdrum

Antonyms

special unusual extraordinary unique remarkable exceptional uncommon

Common collocations

  • ordinary person
  • ordinary life
  • ordinary day
  • ordinary circumstances
  • ordinary matter
  • ordinary course
  • ordinary people

Word family

noun ordinariness
adverb ordinarily

Usage note

Often used to describe something that is not special or exciting. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of being boring or uninteresting.

Example sentences

  1. I had an ordinary breakfast of cereal and milk this morning.
  2. The weather today is ordinary for this time of year.
  3. This is just an ordinary pencil, nothing special about it.
  4. Im an ordinary person, just like everyone else.
  5. She wore an ordinary dress to the party.

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