Peculiar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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peculiar
[pɪˈkjuːlɪər ]
Definitions
unusual
Different to what is normal or expected; strange.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| peculiar |
Used to describe something that is unusual and distinctive in a way that is not necessarily negative.
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| odd |
Suitable for describing something slightly strange or unexpected, but not necessarily alarming.
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| strange |
Used to describe something that is unfamiliar or difficult to understand, often conveying a sense of mystery or the unknown.
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| unusual |
Appropriate for situations where something is different from what is seen as normal or common.
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| weird |
Often implies something bizarre or difficult to explain, sometimes with a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The peculiar smell coming from the kitchen was a cause for concern.
- Her peculiar behavior raised suspicions among her colleagues.
distinctive
Belonging exclusively to a particular person, group, or thing.
Synonyms
distinctive, individual, special, unique.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| peculiar |
Used to describe something that is unusual or strange. It often has a slightly negative or neutral connotation, suggesting oddity or deviation from the norm.
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| unique |
Means something that is one of a kind, unlike anything else. It is used to emphasize complete originality or exclusivity.
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| distinctive |
Used when something has a specific characteristic that makes it stand out from others in a way that is easily recognizable.
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| special |
Implying a quality that sets something apart because it is superior, valued, or requires particular attention.
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| individual |
Refers to something that pertains to a single entity or person, often emphasizing personal characteristics or uniqueness.
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Examples of usage
- The peculiar taste of the local cuisine made it a memorable experience.
- The peculiar architecture of the building set it apart from the rest of the city.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often find 'peculiar' traits in others intriguing or off-putting, influencing social interactions.
- Studies suggest that we remember peculiar behaviors better than standard ones, due to their distinctiveness.
Pop Culture
- Numerous characters in literature and film, like the 'Peculiar Children' series, embrace oddities as their strengths.
- The phrase 'peculiar habits' is often used in portrayals of eccentric personas in TV shows and movies.
Science
- In biology, a 'peculiar' trait in species can lead to discussions of evolution and adaptation due to environmental pressures.
- Chemistry often uses 'peculiar' to describe unusual reactions or properties of materials.
Literature
- 'Peculiar' appears frequently in classic literature to highlight characters who defy societal norms or portray unique qualities.
- Authors like Lewis Carroll used 'peculiar' to describe the strange yet fascinating elements of Wonderland.
Origin of 'peculiar'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'peculiaris', which means 'of one's own' or 'private', showing something unique to someone.
- In old English, it described something that belonged to a particular person or thing, evolving to mean odd or unusual.
The word 'peculiar' originates from the Latin word 'peculiaris', meaning 'of private property'. Over time, it evolved to refer to something distinct or belonging exclusively to a particular entity. In English, 'peculiar' took on the meaning of being different or strange from the usual, adding a touch of eccentricity to its connotation.