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REFERENCE

atypical

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌeɪˈtɪpɪkəɫ// UK //eɪtˈɪpɪkəl// atyp·i·cal

adj. different from what is normal or expected. You use this to describe something that does not fit the usual pattern.

adj. not representative of a type, group, or class; deviating from standard patterns. Often used in scientific or clinical contexts to describe data or behavior.


SIMPLE

The warm weather is atypical for this time of year.

CONTEXTUAL

The doctor noted that the patient's reaction to the medication was atypical, as most people experience no side effects.

COMPLEX

While the artist usually paints in bright, vibrant colors, this somber blue landscape is atypical of her early period and suggests a shift in her creative focus.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From a- + typical.

Usage

Typically used as a predicative adjective after linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem', or attributively before a noun.

Pitfall

an untypical behavioratypical behaviorWhile 'untypical' exists, 'atypical' is the standard form in academic and professional English; additionally, 'behavior' is usually uncountable in this context.

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