Quirks: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to unusual but harmless traits or behaviors that make someone unique, often in a charming or endearing way.

• Her quirks include talking to her plants and always wearing mismatched socks.
• His little quirks make him stand out in a crowd.

Used when describing someone or something that deviates significantly from the norm, often in a whimsical or unconventional manner.

• His eccentricity is evident in his vast collection of vintage typewriters.
• She embraces her eccentricity by dressing in Victorian-era clothing every day.

Used when highlighting something that is strange or unusual, often in a way that stands out as peculiar or curious.

• The old house has an oddity: a door that leads to nowhere.
• He is an oddity in the company with his preference for handwritten memos over emails.

Used when referring to a characteristic or habit that is unique to an individual, often linked to their personality or mannerisms.

• One of his idiosyncrasies is the way he taps his foot when he is deep in thought.
• Her idiosyncrasies include organizing her bookshelf by the color of the covers.

Used when talking about specific traits or details that are unusual or unique, often in a way that is interesting or notable.

• One peculiarity of the town is its annual festival dedicated to umbrellas.
• Her speech has a peculiarity: a slight accent that is hard to place.

Use this word when referring to small, unique characteristics or habits that are usually endearing or amusing rather than problematic.

• She has a few quirky habits, like talking to her plants
• His quirks make him a unique friend

Fault is commonly used to describe a responsibility for a mistake or the presence of a flaw in something, whether physical or metaphorical.

• It's not your fault that the plan failed
• The machine has developed a fault in its processor

This term is more formal and is used when discussing something that deviates from what is normal or typical, often in medical or scientific contexts.

• The doctor found an abnormality in the patient's heart rhythm
• Genetic abnormalities can lead to various health issues

This word carries a negative connotation and is used when referring to something that is flawed or not functioning as intended.

• The product was recalled due to a manufacturing defect
• He was born with a heart defect

This term is used when dealing with inconsistencies or deviations from what is expected, often in legal, financial, or procedural contexts.

• The audit revealed several financial irregularities
• There's an irregularity in the voting process that needs to be addressed

Use 'quirks' when talking about peculiar or unusual traits, especially those that are unique to a person or thing. It often carries a slightly positive or affectionate connotation.

• One of his quirks is that he always drinks coffee with a teaspoon of salt.
• The old house had its quirks, like the creaky floorboards and uneven walls.

Use 'twist' when describing a forceful or sudden change in direction, often involving rotation. This word can also refer to unexpected changes in stories or situations.

• She twisted the cap off the bottle.
• The plot of the book had an unexpected twist at the end.

Use 'turn' to describe a change in direction, especially a more definite or abrupt one. This word is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• Take the first turn on the right after the traffic light.
• Her career took a surprising turn when she decided to become a chef.

Use 'curve' when describing a smoothly bending line or surface. It's often used in mathematical or geometrical contexts, as well as physical shapes.

• The architect's design included a beautiful curve of glass windows.
• Notice the curve in the road ahead.

Use 'bend' when referring to a change in direction, typically a gentle or gradual one. This word often relates to roads, paths, or physical objects.

• The river took a gentle bend to the left.
• She watched as the road bent around the mountainside.