Atypically

Atypically is an adverb that describes something done in an unusual or atypical manner, or something that deviates from what is standard, typical, or expected. It is formed from the adjective atypical, and it is used when the characteristics or behaviors being described do not conform to common patterns or norms. The term is used across disciplines, including science, medicine, and everyday language, to convey deviation rather than value judgment.

Etymology: The word atypical comes from Greek typikos meaning “of a type” or “model,” with the prefix a-; the adverb atypically is formed by adding -ly to the adjective. The use of atypically follows standard English adverb formation patterns.

Usage notes: As an adverb, atypically modifies verbs, adjectives, or other modifiers. Common collocations include “behaved atypically,” “atypically warm,” “presented atypically,” suggesting deviations from expected patterns. In medicine, the term may describe clinical presentations that do not fit typical diagnostic criteria, while in statistics it may describe observations that fall outside the typical range or distribution.

See also: atypical, anomaly, irregularity.