ordinarily

word

/ˌɔɹdəˈnɛɹəɫi/
/ˌɔːdɪnˈɛɹəli/

Definition

Used to describe what usually happens or is true in most situations; in the normal course of things.

Usage & Nuances

"Ordinarily" is a formal or neutral adverb often used in written or polite spoken English. Similar to "usually", "normally", or "typically", but slightly more formal. Common collocations include: "ordinarily, I don’t...", "ordinarily speaking", or "this would not ordinarily happen". Avoid in casual or very informal conversation.

Example Sentences

We ordinarily eat dinner at home.

basic

It doesn’t ordinarily snow here in April.

natural

Ordinarily, I wake up at 7 a.m.

basic

Dogs ordinarily bark at strangers.

basic

People don’t ordinarily walk this far to go to school.

natural

She wouldn’t ordinarily say something like that.

natural