irregular

[ɪˈrɛɡjʊlə(r)]

irregular Definition

  • 1not following a pattern; not regular in shape, size, or arrangement
  • 2not conforming to established rules, customs, or manners
  • 3not occurring at fixed or predictable times

Using irregular: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "irregular" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The irregular shape of the rock made it difficult to fit into the space.

  • Example

    His attendance at work was irregular, sometimes showing up late or not at all.

  • Example

    Her behavior was irregular, often breaking social norms and expectations.

irregular Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with irregular

  • a verb that does not follow the usual rules for verb forms, such as adding '-ed' to form the past tense

    Example

    The verb 'go' is an irregular verb because its past tense form is 'went'.

  • irregular heartbeat

    an abnormal rhythm of the heart, which can cause health problems

    Example

    He was diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat and had to undergo treatment.

  • military operations that are not part of conventional warfare, such as guerrilla warfare or terrorism

    Example

    The soldiers were trained in irregular warfare tactics to combat insurgent groups.

Origins of irregular

from Latin 'irregularis', from 'in-' (not) + 'regula' (rule)

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Summary: irregular in Brief

The term 'irregular' [ɪˈrɛɡjʊlə(r)] describes things that do not follow a pattern or established rules. It can refer to physical characteristics like shape or size, as well as behaviors that break social norms. Examples include 'The irregular shape of the rock made it difficult to fit into the space.' and 'Her behavior was irregular, often breaking social norms and expectations.' 'Irregular' also has specific meanings in phrases like 'irregular verb,' which refers to verbs that do not follow standard conjugation rules.

How do native speakers use this expression?