is it usual

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "is it usual" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is a question formed using the auxiliary verb "is" and the adjective "usual" to ask about the frequency or normality of something. Example: "Is it usual for you to arrive late to work?" This sentence is asking if the person frequently arrives late to work, using the adjective "usual" to indicate what is considered normal or expected. Another example: "Is it usual to tip at this restaurant?" This question is asking about the typical or customary practice of tipping at a specific restaurant. Additionally, "is it usual" can also be used to express surprise or disbelief. For example, "Is it usual for the train to be this crowded on a weekday?" This sentence is expressing surprise at the level of crowding on the train, and questioning if it is a common occurrence.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Not only is it usual to see an increase of violence during Ramadan but this time the beginning of the Muslim holy month coincided with the alleged discovery of a plot that has sent an unusually pronounced shudder through Baghdad's political classes.

The Economist

Is it usual not to keep records of such cases?

The Guardian

Is it usual for three exhibitions on the same theme to run simultaneously?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It is its usual bumpy self.

The New York Times - Health

Mum, is it the usual for you?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Is that unusual?" "It is usual.

The New Yorker

"It is not usual," Bouvier said.

The New Yorker

It is the usual pageant.

The New Yorker

It is his usual haunt in Rome.

The New York Times

It is the usual Punch and Judy stuff.

The Economist

The rest of it is the usual noise.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking if something is typical, consider the specific context. For instance, "Is it usual for the train to be delayed during rush hour?" focuses on a specific time and location.

Common error

Avoid using "is it usual" without specifying what you are referring to. For example, instead of saying "Is it usual?", clarify with "Is it usual to tip in this country?" to provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it usual" functions as an interrogative expression used to inquire about the commonality or typicality of a particular event, behavior, or situation. It seeks to determine whether something aligns with established norms or expectations, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is it usual" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-toned interrogative used to ascertain the typicality of events or behaviors. Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness and common usage. While not overly formal, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, from news reporting to general inquiries. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the context is clear. Consider alternatives like "is it typical" or "is it common practice" for subtly different shades of meaning. Top sources for this phrase include the New York Times and The Guardian. The phrase is often found in news, media and wiki content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is it typical?

Directly inquires about the characteristic or representative nature of something.

Is it common practice?

Focuses on whether something is a widely accepted or standard way of doing things.

Is it routine?

Focuses on whether something is a regular and predictable part of a process.

Is it standard procedure?

Emphasizes whether something aligns with established protocols or guidelines.

Is it customary?

Refers to practices that are established by long usage and tradition.

Is it the norm?

Highlights whether something conforms to the typical or expected behavior.

Is it the standard?

Asks if something meets a defined level of quality or requirement.

Is it conventional?

Highlights whether something adheres to established norms or standards.

Is it generally accepted?

Focuses on whether there is a widespread agreement or consensus about something.

Does this usually happen?

Queries about the frequency of an event or occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "is it usual" in a sentence?

You can use "is it usual" to ask about the typicality of an event, behavior, or practice. For instance, "Is it usual for this store to be so crowded?"

What's a more formal way to ask "is it usual"?

In formal contexts, you could ask "Is it customary?" or "Is it standard practice?". These alternatives are more suited for professional or academic settings.

What can I say instead of "is it usual"?

You can use alternatives like "is it typical", "is it common practice", or "is it the norm" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "is it usual" grammatically correct?

Yes, "is it usual" is grammatically correct. It's a common way to form a question asking about the typicality or frequency of something, as confirmed by Ludwig.