# curiously

/ˈkjʊɹiəsɫi/ (US) · /kjˈʊɹɪəsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/curiously
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

in a way that shows you are interested in something and want to learn more. It can also mean that something is strange or unusual.

For teachers: in a manner that demonstrates inquisitiveness or interest; alternatively, used to indicate that a situation is strange or unexpected.

## Examples

- The cat looked curiously at the moving shadow.
- Curiously, the front door was unlocked even though the family had been away for a week.
- The researchers looked curiously at the data, noting that the results contradicted every hypothesis they had formulated during the initial planning phase.

## Usage notes

- When used to mean 'strangely', it often functions as a sentence adverb at the start of a clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.