In the ordinary way Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Social Context Used when talking about common social behaviors or practices. He greeted us in the ordinary way with a handshake. Pro Tip 2/3No Surprise Indicates nothing unexpected or out of the ordinary. The meeting proceeded in the ordinary way without any surprises. Pro Tip 3/3Standard Procedure Refers to doing things as per general rules or expectations. The test was conducted in the ordinary way, with all students seated separately.