# originality

/ɝˌɪdʒəˈnæɫɪti/ (US) · /əɹˌɪdʒɪnˈælɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/originality
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the quality of being new, interesting, and different from anything else. You use this to describe someone who has fresh ideas instead of just copying others.

For teachers: the ability to think independently or creatively; the quality of being novel or unusual. Often used to evaluate artistic or intellectual work.

## Examples

- The judges praised the originality of her design.
- While the plot follows a familiar pattern, the film's originality lies in its unique visual style and character development.
- Critics often debate whether true originality is possible in the modern era, or if every creative act is merely a sophisticated rearrangement of existing cultural fragments.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the abstract quality; rarely used in the plural.

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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.