# typical

/ˈtɪpəkəɫ/ (US) · /tˈɪpɪkəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/typical
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. representative of a group

adjective · CEFR A2

having the usual features or qualities of a particular group or thing.

For teachers: exhibiting the essential or characteristic qualities of a specific class, group, or type.

- This is a typical English village with a small church and a green park.
- The architect pointed out the typical features of Gothic revivalism, such as the pointed arches and steep gables found throughout the cathedral.

### 2. expected behavior

adjective · CEFR B1

happening in the way you expect, especially when someone always behaves that way.

For teachers: conforming to a predictable pattern of behavior or occurrence, often used with a mildly critical tone.

- It was typical of him to be late for the meeting again.
- While the delay was frustrating, it was typical of the local transport system during the peak holiday season.

### 3. biological type

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical

describing a plant or animal that is the best example of its scientific group.

For teachers: relating to or serving as a type specimen that defines a taxon.

- The museum has the typical specimen used to name this kind of butterfly.
- The researcher identified the typical subspecies by comparing its morphology to the original records held in the national archive.

Usage: Usually used in biological or taxonomic contexts to refer to a 'type species'.

## Examples

- It was a typical rainy day in London.
- The menu offers typical Italian dishes like pasta and pizza that you can find in almost any restaurant.
- While the architecture is typical of the late Victorian period, the interior has been renovated with modern materials that create a striking contrast.

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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.