anomaly
uh-NOM-uh-lee
/əˈnɒm.ə.li/
Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.
In medicine, an anomaly isn't always 'bad'; it's simply an anatomical or physiological deviation.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'anomalos', meaning 'uneven' or 'irregular'. It is formed from 'an-' (not) and 'homalos' (even).
Word relationships
- aberration: Aberration often implies a temporary or unwelcome departure, while anomaly is more neutral.
- irregularity: Irregularity is more common and less technical than anomaly.
- normality: The state of being standard or expected.
- conformity: Compliance with standards or rules.
Commonly confused with
- abnormality: Abnormality often carries a negative connotation of being 'unhealthy,' whereas anomaly is more clinical.
Word family
- anomalous (adjective): Deviating from what is standard.
Collocations
- congenital anomaly
- structural anomaly
- genetic anomaly
- detect an anomaly
Example sentences
- "The MRI revealed a vascular anomaly in the left hemisphere that required further investigation." Radiology report
- "With the exception of this anomaly, the results were consistent with previous findings." Scientific observation
Memory hook
A-NOM-aly: 'A' (not) 'Normal' (nom). Not the norm.
When not to use
Avoid using it to describe a simple mistake; it implies a structural or systemic deviation.
Fun facts
- In astronomy, an anomaly is the angle used to describe the position of a planet in its orbit.
Related words
Explore more words
deviation, discrepancy, error, disparity, unforeseen, malfunction
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