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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

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Jessica is in a high-stakes meeting while David is running late.
Jessica

Client's still waiting. You're 20 mins late again.

Jessica
David
David

Typical me, right? Just hitting a snag with the GPS.

💡
David uses 'typical' to acknowledge his well-known habit of tardiness in a casual, self-deprecating way. The phrase 'hitting a snag' is a common idiom meaning to encounter an unexpected problem.

Meanings

adjective

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."

adjective

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."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 23, 2026Report an Error