irregularity

American  

[ih-reg-yuh-lar-i-tee] / ɪˌrɛg yəˈlær ɪ ti /

noun

plural

irregularities

1. the quality or state of being irregular.

2. something irregular.

3. a breach of rules, customs, etiquette, morality, etc.

4. occasional mild constipation.

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Etymology

Origin of irregularity

1275–1325; Middle English irregularite < Old French < Medieval Latin irrēgulāritās. See ir- ², regularity ( def. )

Example Sentences

Six weeks after a complaint was filed, prosecutors dropped the case and launched an investigation into “irregularities” and bias in the way evidence was presented against Konnech, the D.A.’s office said in a 2022 statement.

From Los Angeles Times

For years, the Commerce Department has carried out regular antidumping probes of Italian pasta makers suspected of underpricing their products, and it has frequently found one or more companies guilty of pricing irregularities.

From The Wall Street Journal

The electoral commission ordered a partial recount and eventually annulled the results in 136 polling stations citing irregularities.

From Barron's

“We are firmly opposed to social irregularities, but the question is how they should be addressed.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The justice department on Tuesday called the letter a fake, noting several irregularities with the note and the envelope that held it.

From BBC

Related Words

• breach
• crime
• infringement
• violation