What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonnormal
Example
The results of the experiment were nonnormal, indicating a significant deviation from the expected outcome. [nonnormal: adjective]
Example
The patient's symptoms were nonnormal and required further investigation. [nonnormal: adjective]
abnormal
Example
The test results showed abnormal levels of glucose in the blood. [abnormal: adjective]
Example
The behavior of the animal was abnormal and required further observation. [abnormal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abnormal is more commonly used than nonnormal in everyday language. Abnormal is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nonnormal is less common and may sound more technical or formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nonnormal and abnormal?
While both words can be used in formal contexts, nonnormal may sound more technical or specialized due to its less common usage.