adjective
unusual
Different from what is common or expected.
An unusual sound from the engine makes the driver stop.
Etymology
The negative prefix denies customary occurrence. Unusual describes a departure from what is commonly encountered or expected.
More examples
- It is unusual for snow to fall here in April.
- She wears earrings with an unusual shape.
- His unusual approach solves a problem that defeats everyone else.
Forms
unusual · more unusual · most unusual
unusually adverb — In a way that differs from expectations.
Similar words
- uncommon
- Emphasizes low frequency rather than difference from what is expected.
- unexpected
- Emphasizes what was not anticipated, even if otherwise ordinary.
- odd
- Suggests something strange or puzzling, not merely different.