# abnormalise

CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abnormalise
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

to make something seem normal or acceptable when it is actually strange or wrong. It is the opposite of making something look like a problem.

For teachers: to make something that is objectively deviant or irregular appear standard or acceptable. Often used in sociological or psychological contexts to describe the process of normalising deviant behaviour.

## Examples

- The company tried to abnormalise the safety violations.
- In some cultures, certain social behaviours are abnormalised, meaning they are treated as if they are perfectly normal despite being unusual elsewhere.
- The documentary explores how the media can abnormalise extreme political rhetoric, leading the public to perceive inflammatory speech as a standard part of the democratic process.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.