unorthodox
adj.different from what is usually done or expected. You use this to describe ideas or methods that are creative and do not follow traditional rules.
adj.contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted. Often used to describe innovative methods or non-conformist beliefs that challenge established norms.
“The coach used an unorthodox strategy to win the game.”
“Her unorthodox teaching methods initially surprised the parents, but the students' test scores improved significantly by the end of the year.”
“While the scientist's theories were dismissed as unorthodox by his contemporaries, they eventually laid the groundwork for a paradigm shift in quantum mechanics.”
Often used to modify nouns like 'method', 'approach', 'strategy', or 'belief'.
“A California native and member of a conservative Christian family, Harp followed an unorthodox path into an already unconventional White House.”
“Some were using tried-and-tested methods such as putting bedding in the freezer and keeping blackout curtains shut all day, while others turned to slightly more unorthodox methods.”
From un- + orthodox.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.