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irregularity

noun

/ɪˌrɛg yəˈlær ɪ ti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of irregularity

The state or quality of deviating from the usual or expected pattern, form, or behavior.
"The inspector found several irregularities in the financial records."

Detailed meaning of irregularity

It signifies a departure from the norm or standard, indicating something that is atypical, abnormal, or inconsistent. Irregularities can occur in various contexts, including physical structures, processes, actions, or events. In a physical sense, irregularity may refer to a shape, surface, or pattern that lacks symmetry, uniformity, or smoothness. It can also pertain to irregular occurrences or variations in a sequence, schedule, or routine. Furthermore, irregularities can be observed in human behavior, performance, or physiological functioning, indicating deviations from established norms or expected behaviors. In the realm of governance, irregularity often refers to violations of rules, regulations, or protocols, suggesting improper conduct, corruption, or breaches of protocol. Overall, irregularity encompasses the notion of deviation, inconsistency, or anomaly, highlighting departures from regular or expected patterns or standards.

Example sentences containing irregularity

1. The doctor noticed an irregularity in the patient's heartbeat during the examination.
2. The auditor discovered financial irregularities in the company's accounting records.
3. The athlete was disqualified due to an irregularity in their drug test results.
4. The architect pointed out an irregularity in the construction plans that needed to be addressed.
5. The detective found an irregularity in the witness's statement, raising suspicions.
6. The teacher noticed an irregularity in the student's handwriting, indicating possible cheating.

History and etymology of irregularity

The noun 'irregularity' shares its etymological roots with the adjective 'irregular.' It also has Latin and Old French origins. The word 'irregularity' stems from the Latin term 'irregularitas,' which combines 'ir' meaning 'not' or 'un-' with 'regularitas,' derived from 'regula,' signifying 'rule' or 'pattern.' In Latin, 'regularitas' conveyed the idea of conformity to a set pattern or standard. As Latin evolved into Old French, 'irregularitas' transformed into 'irregularité,' maintaining its sense of deviating from the usual or expected pattern. Eventually, this term found its way into the English language, where 'irregularity' is used to describe the state or quality of deviating from the typical or anticipated pattern, form, or behavior, rooted in its Latin and Old French origins.

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Further usage examples of irregularity

1. The company's HR department investigated an irregularity in the employee's attendance records.
2. The scientist observed an irregularity in the pattern of the experimental data.
3. The art curator identified an irregularity in the painting's signature, suggesting a forgery.
4. The hiker noticed an irregularity in the trail markers, causing them to lose their way.
5. The inspector discovered an irregularity in the manufacturing process, leading to a product recall.
6. The accountant discovered an irregularity in the financial statements that required further investigation.
7. The referee penalized the player for an irregularity in their actions during the game.
8. The historian uncovered an irregularity in the historical documents, challenging established narratives.
9. The meteorologist detected an irregularity in the weather patterns, indicating a potential storm.
10. The judge ruled in favor of the defendant due to an irregularity in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
11. The analyst identified an irregularity in the stock market data, signaling a potential market manipulation.
12. The inspector noticed an irregularity in the safety procedures at the construction site.
13. The supervisor addressed an irregularity in the employee's work schedule, resulting in a correction.
14. The pharmacist discovered an irregularity in the prescription, preventing the patient from receiving the wrong medication.