Word
Definitions
01one of a kind
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. being the only one of its kind in the world.
adj. being the only one of its kind; existing as a single or unparalleled instance.
“Each snowflake has a unique pattern that is different from all others.”
“The DNA sequence of every individual is unique, providing a biological signature that distinguishes one person from the rest of the population.”
Usage
Usually non-gradable; avoid using with modifiers like 'very' or 'extremely' in formal writing.
Pitfall
This is a very unique painting.
This is a unique painting.
In strict grammar, 'unique' means 'the only one', so it cannot be 'very' or 'more'. Use 'unusual' if you want to use a modifier.
Teaching tip
While common in speech, many teachers and editors consider 'very unique' a mistake because something is either one-of-a-kind or it isn't.
Synonyms
02exclusive to
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
adj. belonging to only one person, place, or group.
adj. belonging or connected to a specific person, group, or place to the exclusion of others.
“The fingerprints of every person are unique to them.”
“The architectural style is unique to this specific region of the Alps, found nowhere else in the country.”
Usage
Often takes the preposition 'to'.
03unusual or special
B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal
adj. very special, unusual, or different from others.
adj. highly unusual, remarkable, or distinct from the norm.
“She has a unique way of solving problems that no one else thought of.”
“The boutique offers a unique shopping experience by combining a gallery space with high-end fashion retail.”
Teaching tip
In informal contexts, this is a synonym for 'special'. In formal essays, stick to the 'one of a kind' meaning.
Synonyms
04a singular thing
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Formal · Technical
n. a person or thing that is the only one of its kind.
n. an entity or object that is unparalleled or exists as a singular instance.
“In the world of classic cars, this model is a true unique.”
“The museum's collection includes several uniques that have survived from the early Bronze Age.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “unique” in context.
Adjective
01. unique aspect
“The most unique aspect of this software is its ability to translate speech in real-time.”
adj + noun
02. unique challenge
“Working in a remote research station presents a unique challenge for the scientists.”
adj + noun
03. unique characteristic
“The stripes on a zebra are a unique characteristic that helps identify individuals.”
adj + noun
04. unique contribution
“Her research made a unique contribution to our understanding of marine biology.”
adj + noun
05. unique feature
“The building's unique feature is a rooftop garden that collects rainwater.”
adj + noun
06. unique insight
“The documentary provides a unique insight into the daily lives of nomadic tribes.”
adj + noun
07. unique nature
“Due to the unique nature of the project, we had to develop new management tools.”
adj + noun
08. unique opportunity
“Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to experience a different culture firsthand.”
adj + noun
09. unique perspective
“As a former athlete, he brings a unique perspective to his role as a sports commentator.”
adj + noun
10. unique property
“This metal has the unique property of remaining liquid at room temperature.”
adj + noun
11. unique role
“The teacher plays a unique role in shaping the future of her students.”
adj + noun
Real-World Examples
“It turns out that there really is something unique about Earth: as far as we currently know, it is the only place where life exists.” “It’s in my home town.”
Meanwhile Dara urged visitors who will attend Eurovision to take the opportunity to visit Bulgaria, the Black Sea coast and discover the unique culture of the Balkan country.” Etymology
Borrowed from French unique. Piecewise doublet of any.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
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「カタカナ語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0