Ordinary Meaning, Usage and Examples

Meaning 1：usual (ordinary)

ordinary 🔊

/ˈɔːrdɪneri/

adj.

Something that is ordinary is normal, usual, or not special. It's how most things are.

Ordinary breakfast scene with toast and milk on table

usual 🔊

➕

/ˈjuːʒuəl/

adj.

Not special, different, or unusual in any way; typical or average.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'ordinarius' (regular), stemming from 'ordo' (order, class).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'order' - ordinary things happen in the usual order of life.

📖 Example

For me, an ordinary weekend means sleeping in and meeting old friends for coffee. 🔊 For me, an ordinary weekend means sleeping in and meeting old friends for coffee.

🔗 Collocations

ordinary people – The general public, not famous or wealthy.

ordinary day – A day that is typical and uneventful.

ordinary life – A life without extraordinary events or fame.

🔄 Synonyms

normal (adj.) – Conforming to a standard; usual.

common (adj.) – Occurring frequently; widespread.

average (adj.) – Typical or usual; not outstanding.

🚫 Antonyms

extraordinary (adj.) – Very unusual or remarkable.

special (adj.) – Better or greater than what is usual.

unusual (adj.) – Not habitually or commonly occurring.

🌱 Derivatives

ordinarily (adv.) – In a normal or usual manner.

ordinariness (n.) – The quality of being ordinary.

extraordinary (adj.) – Very unusual or remarkable.

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'ordinarius' (orderly), rooted in 'ordo' (order). Historically used in church law for the regular bishop's jurisdiction, now describes everyday normality.