WordValeanomaly
something that deviates from the norm
In more detail
1. (noun) something that is different from what is normal or expected; something unusual or odd
2. (noun) something that does not fit a pattern or rule
Examples
- 1. The warm weather in December was an anomaly for that region.
- 2. The scientist found an anomaly in the test results that needed further investigation.
How to use anomaly
Anomaly is used in both scientific and everyday contexts to describe something that deviates from expected patterns or norms. It is more formal and technical than 'oddity' or 'unusual thing', and often implies that the deviation is notable enough to warrant investigation or explanation. In science, it frequently refers to unexpected measurements or observations that don't align with theory.
Common phrases
- statistical anomaly
- gravitational anomaly
- detect an anomaly
- anomaly in the data
- glaring anomaly
Synonyms
irregularity · deviation · oddity · abnormality · exception
Opposites
norm · standard · regularity
Word family
anomalous (adjective) · anomalously (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'anomaly' to mean simply 'a problem' or 'a mistake', but it specifically refers to something unusual or not fitting a pattern, not just any error or defect.
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