unusual
- 01 A2 Elementary
adj.different from what is common or expected.
adj.not habitual or common; deviating from the standard or expected norm.
Simple“It is very unusual to have snow in this part of the country during May.”
In context“The researchers noted an unusual spike in data, suggesting that the previous assumptions about the local climate were incomplete.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
adj.strange in a way that is interesting or surprising.
adj.remarkable or peculiar in a manner that attracts attention or curiosity.
Simple“She has an unusual hobby of collecting antique typewriter ribbons.”
In context“The building's unusual architecture, featuring sharp angles and reflective glass, made it a controversial landmark in the historic district.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
n.something that is not normal or expected.
n.an occurrence or object that is atypical or anomalous.
Simple“The doctor said the test result was an unusual, but nothing to worry about.”
In context“In a sea of predictable outcomes, this specific failure represents the unusual that requires further investigation by the engineering team.”
Usage unusual position · unusual situation
From un- + usual.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.