norm Definition
- 1a standard or pattern of behavior that is typical or expected of a group or community
- 2a required or expected level of achievement
- 3a statistical average or representation of a set of data
Using norm: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "norm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The norm in this office is to work from 9 to 5.
Example
The norm for this test is a score of 80% or higher.
Example
The average weight of the class is considered the norm for this age group.
norm Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using norm
Example
In this company, working overtime is the norm rather than the exception.
Example
Her artistic style is beyond the norm, incorporating unconventional materials and techniques.
the social expectation that people will respond to each other in similar ways, often used in the context of gift-giving
Example
The norm of reciprocity suggests that if someone gives you a gift, you should give them one in return.
Phrases with norm
social norm
a behavior or expectation that is considered acceptable or appropriate within a particular society or culture
Example
In some cultures, it is a social norm to remove your shoes before entering someone's home.
norm-referenced test
a type of assessment that compares an individual's performance to a larger group, typically used in education and psychology
Example
The SAT is a norm-referenced test, which means that scores are compared to those of other test-takers.
normcore
a fashion trend characterized by unpretentious, ordinary clothing that is deliberately unfashionable
Example
She embraced the normcore trend by wearing plain t-shirts and sneakers.
Origins of norm
from Latin 'norma', meaning 'carpenter's square'
Summary: norm in Brief
The term 'norm' [nɔːm] refers to a standard or pattern of behavior that is typical or expected of a group or community. It can also refer to a required level of achievement or a statistical average. Examples include 'The norm in this office is to work from 9 to 5.' and 'The average weight of the class is considered the norm for this age group.' Phrases like 'social norm' and idioms like 'the norm' extend the concept to cultural expectations and typical situations.
