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Definitions

unusual

[uhn-yoo-zhoo-uhl, -yoozh-wuhl] / ʌnˈyu ʒu əl, -ˈyuʒ wəl /
ADJECTIVE
different
Synonyms
STRONGEST
amazing astonishing awesome bizarre curious exceptional extraordinary incredible memorable noteworthy odd phenomenal rare remarkable significant singular special strange surprising uncommon unconventional unexpected unique weird
WEAK
abnormal atypical awe-inspiring conspicuous distinguished eminent far-out inconceivable out of the ordinary outstanding prodigious prominent refreshing something else unfamiliar unparalleled unwonted
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bad common commonplace conventional expected familiar insignificant like normal ordinary poor regular similar standard typical unexceptional unimportant unnoteworthy usual

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“This is not unusual and, overall, central banks have been and will continue to be net buyers of gold.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

A tech selloff isn’t unusual when the market abruptly shifts into risk off mode, said John Belton, portfolio manager at Gabelli Funds.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

An unusual, last-minute decision was made for Blanche to personally interview Epstein’s imprisoned co-defendant Ghislaine Maxwell.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

The hosts discuss the unusual case of a smaller company absorbing a larger one, and why Unilever’s stock is currently plummeting.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

We’re just one block from home, but the unusual traffic has stopped us in the middle of the road.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.