typical
/ˈtɪpɪkl̩/
Describes something that serves as a perfect representative sample of a category. It evokes an image of a "prototype" or a blueprint that meets all the expected criteria of a specific group. When applied to people's behavior, it often carries a subtle tone of predictability or irony. Saying "That is so typical" usually implies a sense of resignation or mild criticism, suggesting the person is acting exactly as one would expect based on their flawed habits. Unlike "average," which refers to a mathematical middle or mediocrity, "typical" focuses on the presence of identifying characteristics. A typical house isn't necessarily an average-sized house; it is one that possesses all the features you associate with that style of housing.
💬Casual Conversation
Client's still waiting. You're 20 mins late again.
Typical me, right? Just hitting a snag with the GPS.
Meanings
Having the distinctive qualities of a particular type of person or thing; characteristic.
"A typical Italian village has narrow cobbled streets and a central piazza."
Normal for a particular person, group, or thing; representative of a general pattern.
"It was typical of him to forget his keys on the day of the big interview."
Collocations & Compounds
typical example
Noun collocation: a representative instance that illustrates a general rule
This painting is a typical example of the Baroque style.
typical behavior
Noun collocation: conduct that is characteristic of a specific person or group
The child exhibited typical behavior for a toddler during the flight.
typical day
Noun collocation: a standard or average routine of daily activities
A typical day for a doctor involves long hours and constant multitasking.
typical reaction
Noun collocation: a response that is expected or common in a given situation
The typical reaction to the news was one of shock and disbelief.
be typical of
Verb collocation: to exhibit characteristics that are representative of a person or group
It is typical of her to arrive exactly five minutes early to every meeting.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word typikos, which stems from typos meaning a blow, a stamp, or an impression. It entered English via the Latin typicus and French typique, evolving from a term describing a symbolic representation or a model to its current meaning of representing a general characteristic or standard pattern.