VocabDictionary

unusual

/ʌnˈjuː.ʒu.əl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Not habitually or commonly occurring; remarkable, strange, or different from what is expected.

Example Sentences:
  • The city experienced an unusual amount of rainfall for the month of July.
  • She has an unusual talent for mimicking the voices of famous historical figures.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “unusual”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the English prefix 'un-' (meaning 'not') combined with 'usual', which traces back to the Latin 'usualis', from 'usus' (use or custom). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe things that deviate from the common or expected norm.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

UN- (not) + USUAL (normal): It is not the usual way of doing things.

Frequently Asked Questions About “unusual

1. What is the meaning of “unusual” in English?

In English, unusual (adjective) is defined as: “Not habitually or commonly occurring; remarkable, strange, or different from what is expected.”.

2. How do you use “unusual” in a sentence?

The city experienced an unusual amount of rainfall for the month of July.

3. What are English synonyms of “unusual”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “unusual”?

Derived from the English prefix 'un-' (meaning 'not') combined with 'usual', which traces back to the Latin 'usualis', from 'usus' (use or custom). It entered the English language in the late 16th century to describe things that deviate from the common or expected norm.