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Word

neurotypical

adjective C1
UK /ˌnjʊə.ɹəʊˈtɪ.pɪ.kəl/
US /ˌnʊ.ɹoʊˈtɪ.pɪ.kəl/

Meanings

adjective

Having cognitive and behavioral patterns that are considered typical by societal standards, often contrasted with neurodivergent.

neurotypical: Having cognitive and behavioral patterns that are considered typical by societal standards, often contrasted w…

Definition

Neurotypical describes a person whose thinking, learning, and social behavior fit what is generally considered typical in their culture.

Neurotypical is an adjective used to describe people whose neurological development and cognitive patterns are seen as typical by societal standards. It is often used when discussing autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodiversity. The word is mainly descriptive and depends on social context rather than a strict boundary. It is commonly used in contrast with neurodivergent.

Examples

  • I’m neurotypical, but I’m still learning how different communication styles can be.
  • She assumed her colleague was neurotypical, yet his preferences turned out to be quite different from hers.
  • They designed the workshop for neurotypical participants first, then adjusted it to be more inclusive for everyone.
  • He explained that the instructions were written with a neurotypical reader in mind, which made them harder for some people to follow.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes use neurotypical as a noun ("a neurotypical") instead of the adjective form ("a neurotypical person").