it is usual

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is usual" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is generally or ordinarily the case; for example, "It is usual for construction to begin in the spring."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Is that unusual?" "It is usual.

The New Yorker

It is usual to keep it up at every future meeting.

The Economist

It is usual these days to play ace from ace-king.

The New York Times

It is usual to work until 11pm or midnight on an average working day.

The Guardian

And yet, back on Earth, it is usual for the religious to say they feel threatened.

The Guardian - Opinion

Surely it is usual for supermarkets to discount at levels that conventional booksellers cannot match?

The Guardian - Books

It is usual to tip the steward who looks after you.

The Guardian - Travel

It is usual for customers to pay individually for their drinks and food.

The Guardian - Money

It is usual in Europe for spiritual seeds to be sown with blood.

The New York Times - Arts

A Western diplomat says that it is usual to mobilise some 50-75% of troops, while keeping the rest back.

The Economist

It is usual to resolve this ambiguity by demanding that the proper time τ increase as the time t increases.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is usual", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being considered typical or standard. Providing specific examples or reference points can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is usual" without sufficient evidence or qualification. Overgeneralizing can lead to inaccurate or misleading statements. Always consider if there are exceptions or variations to the usual practice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is usual" functions as an introductory expression. It sets the stage for describing a common practice, occurrence, or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

15%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is usual" is a versatile phrase used to convey that something is common or typical. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. It's crucial to provide context and avoid overgeneralization when using this phrase. Alternatives like ""it is common"" or ""it is typical"" can be used to add nuance. With a very high frequency across diverse sources such as science, news & media, and encyclopedias, this phrase is an important tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is common

Replaces "usual" with "common", suggesting something happens frequently or is widespread.

it is typical

Substitutes "usual" with "typical", implying something is representative of a particular type or group.

it is customary

Replaces "usual" with "customary", emphasizing adherence to established practices or traditions.

it is standard practice

Emphasizes that something is the officially accepted or established method.

it is generally the case

Uses a more formal structure to express that something is true in most instances.

it is the norm

Indicates that something is the standard or expected behavior or situation.

it is often the case

Highlights the frequency of an occurrence, similar to "it is usual".

it is the rule

Implies something is a general principle or pattern that typically holds true.

it is commonplace

Replaces "usual" with "commonplace", suggesting the event or practice is mundane and unremarkable.

it is widely accepted

Focuses on the broad agreement or endorsement of a particular practice or belief.

FAQs

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

Use "it is usual" to describe a common or typical practice. For example, "It is usual to tip the steward on a cruise."

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

Alternatives include "it is common", "it is typical", or "it is customary" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it is usual" formal or informal?

"It is usual" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "it is standard practice" may be preferred in certain professional settings.

What's the difference between "it is usual" and "it is always"?

"It is usual" implies something happens frequently or typically, while "it is always" suggests something happens without exception. The former acknowledges potential variations, while the latter does not.