noun, adverb
average year; normal year; ordinary year
Refers to a typical or usual year, often used in comparisons with the current year (e.g., 例年より寒い).
今年の冬は例年より暖かい。
This winter is warmer than an average year.
例年通り、桜は四月に咲いた。
As in a normal year, the cherry blossoms bloomed in April.
noun, adverb
Used adverbially to mean 'every year' or 'year after year'. Similar to 毎年, but 例年 often implies a pattern or custom.
See also: 毎年
この祭りは例年多くの観光客でにぎわう。
This festival attracts many tourists every year.