# unorthodox

/əˈnɔɹθəˌdɑks/ (US) · /ʌnˈɔːθədˌɒks/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unorthodox
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

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.

For teachers: contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted. Often used to describe innovative methods or non-conformist beliefs that challenge established norms.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Often used to modify nouns like 'method', 'approach', 'strategy', or 'belief'.

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