more ordinary than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more ordinary than" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the ordinariness of two or more things, indicating that one is less extraordinary or more common than the other. Example: "This painting is more ordinary than the one we saw at the gallery last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

And what site could be more ordinary than a pub?

The New York Times

In fact, they are smaller and more ordinary than imagined.

The New York Times - Arts

The Gorgonzola salad is more ordinary than it reads.

The New York Times

Last night Clemens was more ordinary than anything.

The New York Times - Sports

Perhaps politics in Afghanistan can become more ordinary than people imagine.

The Economist

It doesn't get more ordinary than that — the dying part, at least.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

There were many more ordinary people than usual, just standing there.

The New York Times

When Fiona falls in love with Richard, we are surprised because no one could be more ordinary looking than Richard.

The Guardian

We enrolled more ordinary patients than the specially selected individuals usually included in clinical trials by using wide inclusion criteria, and allowing concomitant illnesses and medications.

Alzheimer's Research and Therapy

She is never more ordinary, more decent than when asked at her trial why she murdered her husband rather than divorce him.

The New York Times

The Clintons who struggle into the light are more ordinary and extraordinary than that.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more ordinary than", consider the audience. In formal writing, opt for synonyms like "less remarkable than" for increased precision.

Common error

While "more ordinary than" is grammatically correct, overuse in informal speech can make your language sound stilted. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "more typical than" or "less remarkable than" to add nuance and naturalness to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more ordinary than" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It serves to compare the degree of ordinariness between two entities, indicating that one is less exceptional or remarkable than the other. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more ordinary than" is a versatile comparative phrase employed to emphasize a lack of distinction or special qualities. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and academic writing. When opting for alternative phrasing, options like "less remarkable than" or "more commonplace than" can provide a more precise or nuanced expression. Pay attention to audience and context to ensure your phrasing effectively conveys the intended meaning without sounding stilted or unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less remarkable than

Emphasizes the lack of distinction or impressiveness compared to something else.

more commonplace than

Highlights the commonness or prevalence relative to something else.

more mundane than

Focuses on the everyday and routine nature compared to something more exciting.

less extraordinary than

Directly contrasts with being exceptional or unusual.

more conventional than

Indicates adherence to norms and established practices.

more typical than

Suggests conformity to a standard or average.

more run-of-the-mill than

Implies a lack of uniqueness or special qualities.

more standard than

Highlights the conformity to a particular requirement or level.

less novel than

Focuses on the lack of new or original qualities.

more pedestrian than

Suggests a lack of flair or imagination.

FAQs

How can I use "more ordinary than" in a sentence?

Use "more ordinary than" to compare two subjects, indicating one is less exceptional: "This Tuesday felt "more ordinary than" the exciting Monday before."

What phrases can I use instead of "more ordinary than"?

Alternatives include "more commonplace than", "less remarkable than", or "more mundane than". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "more ordinary than" and "more typical than"?

"More ordinary than" emphasizes a lack of uniqueness or special qualities, while ""more typical than"" suggests conformity to a standard or average. The subtle difference influences the overall tone.

Is it correct to say "more ordinary than usual"?

Yes, "more ordinary than usual" is grammatically correct. It implies something is even less remarkable compared to what is normally expected.