on the average

Idioms  

1. As a rule, usually, as in On the average, about 15 percent of the freshmen class will drop out before graduation. This expression uses average in the sense of “a norm or standard.” [First half of 1700s]

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Example Sentences

But that responsibility of figuring out what’s truly safe and unsafe shouldn’t fall on the average consumer, Benesh emphasizes.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

Revenue increased 1% on the average of the prior two quarters, supported by 0.4% growth in net interest income and 5% growth in markets income.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

But the Dow comprises only 30 companies, weighted by share prices, so a sharp change in an expensive stock can exert strong pressure on the average.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

That’s a big improvement on the average 13,000 increase from June to August.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 20, 2025

“The Clearasil needs time to work. Killing pimples requires patience. By the way, Ben, since women live seven years longer than men on the average, I imagine I’ll be attending your funeral one day.”

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy