What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unnatural
Example
The bright blue color of the sky looked unnatural after the storm. [unnatural: adjective]
Example
Using chemicals to preserve food is an unnatural process. [unnatural: adjective]
abnormal
Example
Her high fever was abnormal for someone her age. [abnormal: adjective]
Example
He showed abnormal behavior after the accident. [abnormal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abnormal is more commonly used than unnatural in everyday language, especially in medical or psychological contexts. Unnatural is less common and is typically used to describe objects or processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unnatural and abnormal?
Both unnatural and abnormal can be used in formal or informal contexts, but abnormal is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing.
