Unconventionally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unconventionally

[ˌʌnkənˈvɛnʃənəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

think outside the box

In a way that is different from what is usual or traditional; in an unconventional manner.

Synonyms

creatively, differently, innovatively, unorthodox.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unconventionally

This word is used when something is done in a way that is different from the norm or what is usually accepted.

  • She approached the problem unconventionally and found a unique solution
  • He dresses unconventionally for a lawyer, often wearing bright colors
unorthodox

This word describes actions or beliefs that are different from what is usually accepted or traditional, and sometimes considered controversial.

  • His unorthodox teaching methods often spark debates among educators
  • The chef's unorthodox recipes attract a lot of attention
innovatively

This word is best used when someone introduces new ideas, methods, or devices. It often implies improvement and advancement.

  • The company is known for approaching technology innovatively
  • She designed the app innovatively to enhance user experience
differently

This word is used to describe doing something in a way that is not the same as what has been done before or compared to others.

  • He sees the world differently, which makes his art so unique
  • Try to solve the puzzle differently this time
creatively

This word is used when someone uses imagination or original ideas to make something or solve problems.

  • They decorated their house very creatively with recycled materials
  • She thinks creatively to come up with new marketing strategies

Examples of usage

  • She approached the problem unconventionally, and her solution was truly innovative.
  • His art is known for being unconventionally bold and provocative.
  • The company unconventionally decided to launch their new product without any marketing campaign.
Context #2 | Adverb

act or behave

In a manner that deviates from the norm or common practice; in an unusual or unexpected way.

Synonyms

abnormally, atypically, unexpectedly, unusually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unconventionally

Used when describing actions, methods, or behaviors that do not conform to standard norms or traditions.

  • She dresses unconventionally, often wearing bright colors and mixed patterns.
  • He solved the problem in an unconventionally creative way.
unusually

Describes something that stands out from the usual in an uncommon way, not necessarily negative.

  • The sky was unusually clear last night.
  • He is unusually tall for his age.
unexpectedly

Used when something happens without prior anticipation or surprise.

  • She unexpectedly received a promotion at work.
  • The event was unexpectedly canceled.
abnormally

Describes situations or conditions that deviate significantly from what is typically expected, often implying a sense of concern or abnormality.

  • The patient's heart rate was abnormally high.
  • It's abnormally cold for this time of year.
atypically

Refers to something that is not typical or usual, often used in a neutral or clinical tone.

  • He reacted atypically to the medication, showing no signs of improvement.
  • The weather has been atypically dry this month.

Examples of usage

  • He unconventionally wore sneakers to the formal event.
  • She unconventionally chose to travel by bicycle instead of taking the bus.
  • The author unconventionally published her book online for free.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • Unconventional art movements, such as Dada and Surrealism, emerged in the early 20th century as reactions against traditional art forms.
  • Fashion designers like Vivienne Westwood have been celebrated for their unconventional styles that challenge societal norms and expectations.
  • In music, genres like punk rock and hip-hop arose from unconventional backgrounds, often turning societal issues into artistic expressions.

Psychology

  • Being unconventional can often lead to higher creativity and innovation, as it encourages thinking outside the box.
  • Studies suggest that people who embrace unconventional behaviors may develop stronger problem-solving skills because they are less restricted by norms.
  • Individuals who identify as unconventional often report higher levels of life satisfaction, as they pursue unique paths aligned with their true selves.

Education

  • Unconventional teaching methods, such as project-based learning, have gained popularity for fostering deeper engagement among students.
  • Alternative education systems, such as Montessori and Waldorf, prioritize individual exploration over traditional curricula, nurturing unconventional thinkers.
  • Educators advocate for unconventional assessment methods, like portfolios or presentations, instead of standard tests to better evaluate diverse talents.

Technology

  • Startups often employ unconventional business models, such as subscription services, to disrupt established industries and attract new customers.
  • Many successful tech innovators, like Steve Jobs, famously embraced unconventional approaches to product design and marketing.
  • Open-source software is considered an unconventional model in contrast to traditional proprietary programming, promoting collaboration and community-driven development.

Origin of 'unconventionally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin 'conventionem,' meaning 'an agreement,' combined with 'un' to indicate a refusal or negation of traditional approaches.
  • It has been part of the English lexicon since the early 19th century, signaling the rise of individualism and alternative lifestyles during that period.
  • The prefix 'un-' is often used in English to imply opposition, making the term a powerful expression of originality.

The word 'unconventionally' is derived from the word 'unconventional', which originated in the mid 19th century. The prefix 'un-' means 'not', and 'conventional' refers to something that is based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed. Therefore, 'unconventionally' describes doing something in a way that is not traditional or usual. The concept of being unconventional has been celebrated in various fields such as art, fashion, and thinking, where breaking away from norms is seen as a form of creativity and innovation.


See also: conventional, conventionalism, conventionalist, conventionally, conventions, unconventionality.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,760, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.