What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subnormally
Example
The child's subnormal IQ score indicated a need for special education. [subnormal: adjective]
Example
The athlete's subnormal performance was attributed to an injury. [subnormal: adjective]
abnormally
Example
The patient's abnormally high blood pressure required immediate attention. [abnormally: adverb]
Example
The weather has been abnormally cold for this time of year. [abnormally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abnormally is more commonly used than subnormally in everyday language. Abnormally is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while subnormally is less common and may be considered more technical or specialized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subnormally and abnormally?
Both subnormally and abnormally are neutral in terms of formality, but subnormally may be considered more technical or specialized due to its limited usage in specific contexts.