When you want to express the idea of something happening in a regular, normal, or customary manner, the word “ordinarily” comes to your rescue. However, it’s always helpful to have a range of synonyms and expressions at your disposal to convey this meaning effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various formal and informal ways to express “ordinarily,” providing tips, examples, and even some regional variations for added depth.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Ordinarily”
When formality is required, here are some sophisticated alternatives to use instead of “ordinarily”:
1. Usually
One of the most common formal alternatives is “usually.” It portrays the idea of something happening with regularity or according to habit:
Example: Usually, I wake up early to start my day.
2. Normally
“Normally” is another excellent choice for conveying the sense of regularity or customary behavior:
Example: Normally, we have team meetings on Fridays.
3. Typically
When you want to highlight the standard or expected behavior of something, using “typically” can be quite effective:
Example: Typically, the library opens at 9 AM.
Informal Ways to Say “Ordinarily”
If you’re in a more casual setting or want to convey a sense of informality, consider using these alternatives to “ordinarily”:
1. Normally
Though also used in formal contexts, “normally” can be utilized informally to express expected behavior:
Example: Normally, I’m not a morning person, but today I woke up early.
2. Usually
Similar to its formal use, “usually” fits well in informal situations, letting others know about regular occurrences:
Example: We usually grab coffee together in the mornings.
3. More often than not
This informal phrase suggests that something frequently occurs, without explicitly stating it does every time:
Example: More often than not, I tend to choose comfort over style.
Regional Variations
Language varies across regions, and expressions for “ordinarily” are no exception. Here are a few regional variations that maintain the same meaning:
1. Typically
Commonly used by English speakers in North America as well as the United Kingdom:
Example: Typically, people travel during the summer months.
2. Generally
This variant is frequently used by English speakers in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada:
Example: Generally, it’s considered rude to interrupt someone while they’re speaking.
Conclusion
Now armed with a diverse collection of formal and informal ways to express “ordinarily,” you can confidently communicate regularity and customary behavior in any context. Remember to adapt your choice based on formality requirements, regional preferences, and the tone of your conversation. Happy communicating!
