abnormal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
abnormal Word Meanings
- not normal or typical
- deviating from the norm
- unusual or irregular
abnormal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
abnormal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/æbˈnɔː.məl/
US
/æbˈnɔr.məl/
abnormal Word Etymology
ab- = away from, normal = typical. Originated from Latin, through Old French to English. Picture someone moving 'away from' the crowd, highlighting their uniqueness and deviations from what’s accepted.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Abnormal is a versatile adjective used to describe things that deviate from what is usual or expected. In everyday usage, it often carries a negative or cautionary nuance, implying that something is not within the established norm. You might speak of abnormal weather, abnormal behavior, or an abnormal result on a test. When you choose this word, consider whether you want to emphasize irregularity in degree or in pattern. Note that 'abnormal' can sound clinical or judgmental, so in sensitive contexts you may prefer neutral alternatives like unusual or atypical. The etymology traces back to Latin via Old French, with the sense of moving away from the ordinary.
Usage Reminders
- - Use with non-human nouns (data, weather, behavior)
- - Avoid making value judgments
- - Compare with unusual or atypical when nuance matters
- - Check context: formal vs casual
- - Pair with measurable nouns for clarity
Common Misconceptions
- Abnormal = morally wrong
- Used only for people
- Always interchangeable with unusual
- Only used in medical contexts
- Conveys an extreme negative judgment
Thinking Differences
Abnormal signals a deviation from the norm in data or behavior; English uses it with a neutral-to-formal tone and often contrasts with unusual or atypical. Learners should avoid using it for everyday moral judgments.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'abnormal'?
A.Regular
B.Unusual
C.Known
D.Funny
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'abnormal' correctly?
A.The weather is normal today, not abnormal.
B.She loves to read, which is normal for her.
C.He is always late, which is abnormal for him.
D.Eating vegetables is abnormal for him.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'abnormal'?
A.Usual
B.Common
C.Typical
D.Strange
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'abnormal'?
A.Regular
B.Weird
C.Atypical
D.Different
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you describe something as 'abnormal'?
A.Typical weather
B.Animal behavior
C.Everyday routine
D.Familiar surroundings
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