average

[ˈævərɪdʒ]

average Definition

  • 1a number expressing the central or typical value in a set of data, in particular the mode, median, or (most commonly) the mean, which is calculated by dividing the sum of the values in the set by their number
  • 2typical or ordinary
  • 3calculate or assess the average value of

Using average: Examples

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

  • Example

    The average temperature for this month is 25 degrees Celsius.

  • Example

    On average, people spend 8 hours a day sleeping.

  • Example

    The company's profits are above/below average for the industry.

  • Example

    She averaged 20 points per game last season.

  • Example

    The teacher averaged the test scores to get the class average.

average Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for average

Antonyms for average

Phrases with average

  • usually, typically, or as a general rule

    Example

    On average, it takes about 30 minutes to get to work.

  • above/below average

    better or worse than what is typical or expected

    Example

    The restaurant's food is above average for the area.

  • become or cause to become equal or balanced

    Example

    The ups and downs of the stock market tend to average out over time.

Origins of average

from Middle English 'averaye', from Old French 'avarie', meaning 'damage to ship or cargo', from 'avarier', meaning 'make damage to', from 'aveir', meaning 'goods'

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Summary: average in Brief

The term 'average' [ˈævərɪdʒ] refers to a central or typical value in a set of data, often calculated as the mean. It can also mean typical or ordinary. Examples include 'The average temperature for this month is 25 degrees Celsius.' and 'She averaged 20 points per game last season.' Phrases like 'on average' and 'above/below average' denote typicality or comparison, while 'average out' implies balance or equality.

How do native speakers use this expression?