Rare Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
rare
[reษr ]
Definitions
uncommon occurrence
Not occurring very often or not found in large numbers. Something that is not commonly seen or experienced.
Synonyms
infrequent, scarce, uncommon, unusual.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
rare |
Used to describe something that happens very seldom or is not commonly found. Can also refer to meat that is barely cooked.
|
uncommon |
Used to describe something not frequently encountered but not necessarily rare. Can imply that the event or object stands out in some way.
|
scarce |
Used to describe something that is in short supply or difficult to find. Often has a negative connotation related to limited availability.
|
unusual |
Used to describe something that is not typical or ordinary, often something surprising or remarkable.
|
infrequent |
Used to describe events or occurrences that do not happen often but happen regularly.
|
Examples of usage
- It is a rare opportunity to see a comet in the night sky.
- Finding a four-leaf clover is a rare occurrence.
- She has a rare talent for playing the piano.
valuable or high quality
Of exceptionally high quality or worth. Something that is highly prized or sought after.
Synonyms
exceptional, precious, unique, valuable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
rare |
Used to describe something that is not commonly found or happens infrequently.
|
valuable |
Used to describe something that has a high worth, often in a monetary sense.
|
precious |
Used to describe something that is very valuable or cherished, often emotionally.
|
unique |
Used to describe something that is the only one of its kind or very unusual.
|
exceptional |
Used to describe something or someone that is unusually good or of very high quality.
|
Examples of usage
- The painting is a rare masterpiece.
- He possesses a rare collection of vintage cars.
- Her rare skills make her a valuable asset to the team.
infrequently or seldom
Not very often; seldom. Happening or appearing less often than is usual or expected.
Synonyms
hardly ever, infrequently, scarcely, seldom.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
rare |
Describing something that does not happen often and is considered unique or special.
|
infrequently |
Describing something that happens occasionally but not regularly; more formal than 'hardly ever'.
|
seldom |
Formal or literary usage to describe something that happens rarely but without the negative connotations that 'scarcely' may carry.
|
hardly ever |
Informal usage when emphasizing that something almost never happens, but can still happen on rare occasions.
|
scarcely |
Used to indicate that something happens very rarely, often carrying a sense of insufficiency or inadequacy.
|
Examples of usage
- She rarely goes to the gym.
- He visits his hometown only rarely.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In art and collectibles, rare items are often highly sought after and can fetch high prices at auctions.
- Rare gems, like pink diamonds, are not only beautiful but also incredibly valuable due to their limited availability.
Science
- There are elements in the periodic table known as 'rare earth metals,' crucial in technology like smartphones and batteries.
- Certain species of plants and animals are classified as rare because they are at risk of extinction.
Psychology
- Humans tend to place higher value on rare experiences or items due to the scarcity principle, which suggests that things become more desirable when they are less available.
- This can lead to a phenomenon known as the 'rarity effect,' where people prefer items that are seen as unique or limited.
Literature
- Literally seen, rare moments of emotion in literature can define a character and deepen the reader's connection to the story.
- Many poets use the concept of rarity to evoke feelings of longing or nostalgia, highlighting what is fleeting.
Origin of 'rare'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'rare' comes from the Latin word 'rarus,' which means thin or sparse.
- In the late Middle Ages, the term was used to describe something valued due to its scarcity.
The word 'rare' originated from the Latin word 'rarus', which means 'widely spaced' or 'thinly distributed'. Over time, it evolved to refer to something uncommon or of high value. The concept of rarity has always been associated with uniqueness and scarcity, making rare objects or events highly desirable.