B1adjectivehealthscience
US/æbˈnɔːr.məl/
UK/æbˈnɔː.məl/
different from what is usual or expected, often in a way that is worrying
In context
The doctor found an abnormal heartbeat during the test.
It is abnormal for a child of that age to sleep so little.
The weather has been abnormal this year, with snow in April.
Words that go with abnormal
adjective + noun
- abnormal behaviorAbnormal behavior in pets can be a sign of illness.
- abnormal resultsThe scan showed abnormal results.
- abnormal cellsDoctors removed the abnormal cells early.
- abnormal heart rhythmHe was treated for an abnormal heart rhythm.
- abnormal growthThe scan showed an abnormal growth in his lung.
adverb + adjective
- abnormally highPrices were abnormally high last winter.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
It is abnormal that he is late.Correct: It is unusual for him to be late.