Unusual Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unusual
[ʌnˈjuːʒʊəl ]
Definitions
in a unique way
Not habitually or commonly occurring or done. Out of the ordinary.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unusual |
Used to describe something that is not commonly seen or done. It doesn't necessarily imply something strange, but just not typical.
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| rare |
Describes something that is infrequent, scarce or not found in large numbers. It often implies a sense of value or importance due to its scarcity.
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| uncommon |
Refers to something that is not frequently encountered or doesn't happen often. It's similar to 'unusual' but may not carry the same sense of surprise or oddity.
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| peculiar |
Used when something is strange or odd in a noticeable way. It often has a connotation of something being slightly off or not quite right.
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Examples of usage
- Her unusual behavior raised some eyebrows at the party.
- The painting had an unusual color palette that intrigued art enthusiasts.
remarkable or exceptional
Remarkably good, exceptional, outstanding.
Synonyms
exceptional, extraordinary, remarkable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unusual |
Used to describe something that is not common or ordinary. It can refer to anything that stands out or feels different from the norm.
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| extraordinary |
Used to describe something that is incredibly impressive or beyond what is normal and expected. Often implies a sense of surprise or admiration.
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| exceptional |
Used to refer to something that is much better than average, often implying a high level of skill or quality.
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| remarkable |
Used when something is worth noting or commenting on due to its impressive or unusual nature. It can be either good or bad.
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Examples of usage
- She had an unusual talent for playing the piano.
- The team showed unusual determination in achieving their goal.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Unusual experiences can lead to enhanced creativity, pushing individuals to think outside the box.
- When we encounter something unusual, our brains can become more alert, increasing our observational skills.
- People are often drawn to unusual things as they create a sense of curiosity, which can drive exploration and learning.
Pop Culture
- Many popular TV shows and films thrive on unusual characters that break stereotypes, often leading to more relatable and interesting storytelling.
- Musicians frequently embrace unusual sounds or instrumentation to create unique and memorable music experiences.
- Fashion trends often reflect unusual styles or combinations that challenge conventional norms and express individuality.
Literature
- Many classic novels utilize unusual settings or plot lines to engage readers, sparking imagination and providing new perspectives.
- Authors often create unusual characters to evoke strong emotions, making stories more impactful and memorable.
- The surrealist movement in literature highlighted unusual combinations of ideas, showcasing the beauty in the bizarre.
Nature
- Certain animals exhibit unusual traits, like the axolotl that can regenerate body parts, captivating scientists and enthusiasts alike.
- Unusual weather patterns, like snow in the desert, challenge our understanding of climate and ecology.
- Some plants evolve unusual colors or shapes to attract specific pollinators, demonstrating nature's creativity and adaptability.
Origin of 'unusual'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'unusualis', meaning 'not usual', where 'un-' means 'not' and 'usualis' means 'common'.
- It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, reflecting a time when literature began to explore language's flexibility.
- The prefix 'un-' signifies negation or opposition, helping to convey the idea of something being different.
The word 'unusual' originated from the combination of 'un-' (meaning 'not') and 'usual' (meaning 'habitual or commonly occurring'). It has been in use since the late 16th century, evolving to describe things that are out of the ordinary or remarkable. Over the years, 'unusual' has become a widely recognized term to express uniqueness and exceptional qualities.
See also: unusually, unusualness, usually.