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Uncharacteristically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncharacteristically

[สŒn.kรฆr.ษ™ktษ™rหˆษชstษชkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in behavior

Not in accordance with the typical character or behavior of someone or something.

Synonyms

abnormally, atypically, unusually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncharacteristically

Used when someone acts in a way that is not typical for them, often implying a one-time or rare behavior.

  • He was uncharacteristically quiet during the meeting.
  • She acted uncharacteristically brave in the face of danger.
atypically

Used to describe something that is not typical, standard, or expected. This term is often used in more formal or scientific contexts.

  • The plant grew atypically fast under the new conditions.
  • She reacted atypically to the medication.
abnormally

Describes something that deviates from what is usual or expected, often suggesting a problem or irregularity. This word can have a negative connotation.

  • The patientโ€™s heart rate was abnormally high.
  • Itโ€™s abnormally cold for this time of year.
unusually

Often used to describe something that is out of the ordinary. It can suggest something either positive or negative, but less intense than 'abnormally'.

  • He was unusually happy today.
  • The stores were unusually crowded yesterday.

Examples of usage

  • She was uncharacteristically quiet during the meeting.
  • He reacted uncharacteristically to the news.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People can act uncharacteristically due to stress, demonstrating how external factors influence behavior.
  • Unexpected actions often garner attention, revealing insights into someone's personality.
  • The concept of cognitive dissonance explains why individuals might behave in ways that clash with their established traits.

Pop Culture

  • In films, characters often act uncharacteristically to drive drama, leading to greater narrative tension.
  • Famous personalities sometimes surprise fans with uncharacteristic actions, such as a typically reserved star participating in a wild event.
  • Lyrics and stories often explore themes of personal growth, showcasing characters taking actions that defy their usual nature.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature protagonists breaking their own molds, illustrating character development and transformation.
  • Authors use uncharacteristic behavior to challenge norms, allowing for deeper exploration of human complexity.
  • Literary criticism often examines characters who surprise readers by ignoring their habitual responses.

Sociology

  • Cultural expectations can lead to individuals acting in ways that are uncharacteristic due to societal pressures.
  • Group dynamics often influence behavior, resulting in individuals embracing uncharacteristic roles to fit in.
  • Social identity theory explores how environments can trigger uncharacteristic actions in individuals.

Origin of 'uncharacteristically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', combined with 'character', which refers to traits or qualities.
  • The suffix '-istically' is derived from 'istic', meaning 'related to' or 'in the manner of'.
  • The term has roots in the Middle English language, showing the evolution of descriptive language over centuries.

The word 'uncharacteristically' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of', the word 'characteristic' meaning 'a feature or quality typical of a person or thing', and the suffix '-ly' which is used to form adverbs. The term has been in use since the late 19th century.

See also: character, characteristic, characteristically, characteristics, characterizable, characterization, characterize, characters.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,161, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.