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Synonym Chooser

How is the word anomalous distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words irregular and unnatural are common synonyms of anomalous. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

Where would irregular be a reasonable alternative to anomalous?

Although the words irregular and anomalous have much in common, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

When is it sensible to use unnatural instead of anomalous?

The meanings of unnatural and anomalous largely overlap; however, unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of anomalous Is that machine identity exhibiting anomalous behavior? Tony Bradley, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025 Collaborate with your finance and accounting team to better understand your data and transactions so your business is more equipped to spot losses or anomalous activity. David Culbertson, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 This game was anomalous in that the Penguins didn’t give one up early in the game and, in fact, were the better team in the first period. Rob Rossi, The Athletic, 22 Dec. 2024 The first group of disorders is based on anomalous activity preferences. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anomalous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for anomalous
Adjective
  • In that respect, Alonso is not necessarily unusual.
    Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • If anything seems unusual, trust your instincts and stop the communication immediately.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • According to the Cleveland Clinic, SADS is a heart condition where an abnormal heart rhythm affects the heart’s electrical system, causing sudden death.
    Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 16 May 2025
  • Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes abnormal inflammation around hair follicles, leading to excessive hair loss.
    Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Competing against 12 choirs from across California — including teams from Los Angeles County, Visalia, Sacramento, and San Diego — as well as schools from Arizona and Nevada, the young ensemble scored an extraordinary 99 out of 100 points, according to a news release.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 May 2025
  • The Film Festival has a unique setting with wonderful films and extraordinary events.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Multiple sclerosis bends his limbs in sharp, unnatural angles.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 8 May 2025
  • A week ago, TikTok birthed a strange meme, proposing that the big hat that Zendaya wore back in 2014 during the Teen Vogue Young Hollywood Party contained something unnatural.
    Dani Di Placido, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025
Adjective
  • The companies that invest in neurodiversity today are unlocking game-changing innovation, future-proofing their organizations and setting a new standard for what an exceptional workplace looks like.
    Ben Semmes, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
  • To win the event, Scheffler compensated with his exceptional iron play (1.189 strokes gained approaching the green) and his skills around the green (1.208 strokes gained).
    Julio Cesar Valdera Morales, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • But in the middle is this new, unique tea experience.
    Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 20 May 2025
  • My iPhones, for example, are all protected by unique, 10-digit PINs.
    Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • Melania Trump to make rare appearance to unveil Barbara Bush stamp.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 9 May 2025
  • As the show heads into its season finale — and with a fourth season already greenlit — Rodriguez sees Will Trent as a rare opportunity to blend procedural structure with emotional storytelling.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • It was also updated to clarify the role of Victor Ortega-Jiménez in observing the flamingos' odd feeding behavior.
    Geoff Brumfiel, NPR, 16 May 2025
  • Built as part of the Cardiff Hall plantation, the property had fallen into near ruin; chickens and the odd goat wandered through the living room.
    Isabel Wilkinson Schor, New York Times, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Anomalous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/anomalous. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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