ordinary

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'ordinary' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something common, regular, or typical. Example: She was an ordinary girl who lived an ordinary life.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But these are not ordinary times.

The New York Times - Sports

In the case of ordinary consumers, "switching costs" have a major effect.

The Economist

While serious independent journalism remains nearly impossible in Iran, the bureau is able to provide original reporting through its extensive list of contacts both inside and outside the republic, and to bring the voices of ordinary people to an international audience.

The Guardian

Even perfectly ordinary trousers and tops can sometimes look odd because short people aren't just inflicted with short legs; we're short all over.

The Guardian - Travel

"We should not compromise our own interests to the extent of jeopardising the web of civilian and military exchanges that are at the heart of the relationship, or cut our aid program – intended to improve the lives of ordinary Indonesians.

The Guardian

"This is not a situation in which we are rifling through the ordinary emails of German citizens or American citizens or French citizens or anybody else," he said.

The Guardian

This is just what happened on an ordinary afternoon in the office of a kind and careful counsellor in Kampala, Uganda.

The Guardian

Modern politicians are always droning on about connecting with "ordinary people".

The Guardian - Opinion

The rents get even more expensive when the streets are pedestrianised, meaning you end up with expensive boutiques that are of no use to ordinary people.

The Guardian

Ever since we became an independent nation, each generation has seen an uprising of ordinary Americans to save that dream from the forces that appear to be overwhelming it".

The Guardian - Books

He's not a socialist, just an ordinary liberal American, and he thought it was a revelation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ordinary" to describe something that is common, typical, or not distinguished in any way. It can be used to contrast with the exceptional or unusual.

Common error

Avoid using "ordinary" in isolation. Provide context to clarify what is being compared to or contrasted with. For example, instead of just saying "He was ordinary", specify what aspect of him was ordinary: "He was an ordinary student with no exceptional talents."

Linguistic Context

The adjective "ordinary" primarily functions as a modifier, describing nouns to indicate that they are common, typical, or unremarkable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable word in written English, often used to contrast something with the exceptional.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "ordinary" is a versatile term used to describe something as common, typical, or unremarkable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed, particularly in News & Media contexts. When using "ordinary", ensure you provide enough context to clarify what you're comparing or contrasting it with. While the word itself is neutral, its impact can vary depending on the surrounding words, making it essential to use it mindfully to achieve the desired effect. Semantically related terms include "commonplace", "typical", and "usual". As demonstrated, "ordinary" is a workhorse in the English language for indicating normalcy and lack of distinction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

everyday

Highlights the common occurrence in daily life.

typical

Focuses on conforming to a standard or pattern.

usual

Highlights what is normally expected or observed.

commonplace

Emphasizes the frequency and lack of uniqueness.

regular

Conveys consistency and absence of irregularity.

average

Implies being at a midpoint or norm.

routine

Stresses the habitual and predictable nature.

conventional

Indicates adherence to established norms and practices.

run-of-the-mill

Suggests lacking in special qualities or distinction.

standard

Suggests meeting a required level or quality.

FAQs

How to use "ordinary" in a sentence?

You can use "ordinary" to describe something that is typical or common. For example, "It was just an "ordinary day" until the unexpected happened", or "He was an "ordinary person" with extraordinary dreams".

What can I say instead of "ordinary"?

You can use alternatives like "typical", "commonplace", or "usual" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "ordinary person" or "an ordinary person"?

"An "ordinary person"" is correct. "Ordinary" begins with a vowel sound, so it requires the indefinite article "an".

What's the difference between "ordinary" and "normal"?

"Ordinary" suggests something is common or not special, while "normal" suggests something conforms to a standard or expectation. An "ordinary day" may be unremarkable, whereas a "normal day" proceeds as expected.