Words / C1

uh-NOM-uh-lee/əˈnɒməli/

An anomaly is a result or case that does not fit the usual pattern — not merely “something odd.” Researchers flag an anomaly so they can check the instrument or the rule. Exception is everyday; outlier is the statistics cousin. Abnormal sounds medical or judgemental. Anomalous is the adjective. In speech, that one does not fit is enough.

Meaning

Something that is different from what is usual or expected.

Examples

• “The high score was an anomaly, not the average.”
• “One anomalous reading does not wreck the study, but you must explain it.”
• “The quiet June was an anomaly in an otherwise wet summer.”

Good to know

an anomaly in + data/pattern. Adjective: anomalous. Everyday: odd exception. Close: outlier.

Near in meaning

exception

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