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ordinary

The word "ordinary" is most commonly used to describe things that are normal or average. While it is usually neutral, it can sometimes be used as a subtle criticism to suggest something is boring or lacks excitement. When using this word, remember that it describes the nature of a thing rather than its quality. For example, an "ordinary person" isn't necessarily a bad person; they just don't have famous or unusual characteristics.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is procrastinating in the library while Fatima is actually studying.
Chloe Smith

i can't do this. my brain is fried and this essay is too ordinary.

Chloe Smith
Fatima
Fatima

just buckle down and finish it. we can grab coffee after.

💡
Chloe uses 'ordinary' to describe her work as commonplace or lacking inspiration, reflecting her dramatic nature. Fatima responds with the phrasal verb 'buckle down', meaning to begin working hard or seriously.

Meanings

adjective

With no special or distinctive features; commonplace.

"It was just an ordinary day at the office."

adjective

Not unusual, unexpected, or surprising.

"The situation was far from ordinary given the circumstances."

adjective

Following a regular order or established rule; conventional.

"He followed the ordinary course of procedure for filing the claim."

Examples

It was just an ordinary day at the office.

I just want an ordinary life, you know?

Stop acting like this is some ordinary little mistake!

The weather today seems quite ordinary for April.

Look, this is an ordinary procedure, nothing to fear.

She wears ordinary clothes but has a brilliant mind.

Is this really the ordinary way you treat guests?

I followed the ordinary steps to reset my password.

It felt like an ordinary Tuesday until the sirens started.

Just give me an ordinary black coffee, please.

Related Words

Last Updated: May 21, 2026Report an Error