anomalous
Describes something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected. It is typically used to identify data, behaviors, or situations that do not fit into an established pattern.
Examples
3 of 5The warm weather in December was quite anomalous for this region.
The unusually high temperatures in December were not normal for this area.
The committee found the results of the second trial to be anomalous and requested a re-evaluation.
The committee noticed the second trial's results were irregular and asked for another review.
It’s totally anomalous that he’s late; he’s usually the first one here.
It is very strange that he is late because he is usually very punctual.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'A-Normal-Us'. It sounds like 'A normal...' but with a twist, meaning 'not normal'.
Quick Quiz
The scientists were confused by the ___ readings, as they contradicted all previous experiments.
Correct!
The correct answer is: anomalous
Examples
The warm weather in December was quite anomalous for this region.
everydayThe unusually high temperatures in December were not normal for this area.
The committee found the results of the second trial to be anomalous and requested a re-evaluation.
formalThe committee noticed the second trial's results were irregular and asked for another review.
It’s totally anomalous that he’s late; he’s usually the first one here.
informalIt is very strange that he is late because he is usually very punctual.
Researchers identified several anomalous data points that skewed the final statistical analysis.
academicScientists found several irregular data entries that distorted the final statistics.
The sudden spike in sales during the off-season was an anomalous event that required investigation.
businessThe unexpected increase in sales during the quiet season was an irregular occurrence that needed checking.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
anomalous state of affairs
an irregular or unusual situation
anomalous position
a status or rank that is inconsistent with the norm
highly anomalous
extremely irregular or strange
Often Confused With
Anonymous means having an unknown name or identity, while anomalous means irregular or abnormal.
Usage Notes
Anomalous is a formal term often used in science, statistics, and formal reporting to describe things that don't fit a trend. It carries a neutral to clinical tone, rather than a negative one.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse it with 'anonymous' due to the similar sound, or try to use it as a noun when they should use 'anomaly'.
Memory Tip
Think of 'A-Normal-Us'. It sounds like 'A normal...' but with a twist, meaning 'not normal'.
Word Origin
Derived from the Greek 'anomalos', meaning 'uneven' or 'irregular' (a- 'not' + homalos 'even').
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
The scientists were confused by the ___ readings, as they contradicted all previous experiments.
Correct!
The correct answer is: anomalous
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