How Do You Spell ORDINARY?

Pronunciation: [ˈɔːdɪnəɹi] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "ordinary" seems to be quite straightforward, but there is one tricky aspect of its pronunciation that needs explaining. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈɔrdənɛri/. The tricky part is the stress, which falls on the second syllable, not the first. This is a common mistake that many learners of English make. So, remember to stress the second syllable, and you'll sound like a native speaker!

ORDINARY Meaning and Definition

  1. Ordinary can be defined as an adjective that describes something or someone as usual, typical, or common. It signifies a lack of distinctiveness or exceptional quality. When referring to an individual, it suggests that they are not extraordinary or outstanding in any particular way. An ordinary person is someone who lacks exceptional talent, skill, or charisma.

    In addition, ordinary can refer to events, circumstances, or objects that are mundane, everyday, or unremarkable. It implies that they are not noteworthy, extraordinary, or unique. For instance, an ordinary day refers to a routine or typical day without any extraordinary occurrences. Ordinary objects are those that are commonly or frequently encountered, without any special or distinctive features.

    The term can also be used to describe something that follows standard or established practices, rules, or protocols. It indicates conformity to customary or accepted norms, without deviation or exception. For instance, ordinary language refers to the vernacular or common way of expressing ideas, as opposed to specialized or technical jargon.

    Synonyms for ordinary include usual, regular, commonplace, average, typical, conventional, and everyday. On the other hand, antonyms of ordinary include extraordinary, exceptional, remarkable, unique, special, and uncommon.

    In conclusion, the term ordinary encompasses the notion of something or someone being normal, average, typical, lacking exceptional qualities, or conforming to established patterns or standards.

  2. • According to established order; customary; usual; of common rank or quality; plain; not handsome; common; of little merit.
    • An ecclesiastical judge, usually the bishop; a single judge having power to decide cases either with or without a jury; settled establishment; the figures found on a heraldic shield; a dining-place where the prices are fixed; the meal furnished; a name applied to the chaplain of Newgate.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for ORDINARY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for ORDINARY

Etymology of ORDINARY

The word "ordinary" can be traced back to the Latin word "ordinarius", meaning "customary", "regular", or "normal". It also derived from the Latin word "ordo", meaning "order", "arrangement", or "rank". Over time, "ordinary" took on the meaning of something that is customary, usual, or average. It further evolved to denote things that are not extraordinary or special.

Idioms with the word ORDINARY

  • out of the ordinary The idiom "out of the ordinary" is used to describe something that is not typical or common. It refers to an event, situation, or experience that deviates from the usual or expected norms. It implies that something is uncommon, unusual, or exceptional.
  • in the ordinary, normal, etc. course of events, things, etc. These phrases refer to occurrences and outcomes that are expected, routine, or typical in a given situation. It implies that something would happen without any unusual or unexpected circumstances.
  • the common, general, ordinary, usual run (of something) The common, general, ordinary, usual run (of something) refers to the typical or average type or quality of a particular thing or situation. It is used to describe the standard or prevailing characteristics or features of something.

Similar spelling words for ORDINARY

Plural form of ORDINARY is ORDINARIES

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