unconventional

/ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənl/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənl/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌən-kən-ˈven(t)-sh(ə-)nəl/ (ame, mw)

unconventional — adjective

  • unconventionalpositive
  • more unconventionalcomparative
  • most unconventionalsuperlative

1. doing things in a way that is noticeably different from what most people expect

1.形容詞B2
釋義

doing things in a way that is noticeably different from what most people expect or consider normal, often because you have your own ideas or style

例句

Cyrus took an unconventional approach to teaching, using street art instead of textbooks.

collocation: unconventional approach

The museum's unconventional design features a curved glass roof that seems to float.

collocation: unconventional design

同義詞
  • unorthodox

    stronger than unconventional — implies going against established rules, traditions, or accepted methods, not just usual practice

  • alternative

    softer and more neutral; suggests a different option exists alongside the mainstream one, without emphasis on being unusual

  • nonconformist

    focuses on a deliberate refusal to follow social norms, often as a matter of principle or identity

  • eccentric

    describes behavior or appearance that is strange or odd in a noticeable way; can be mildly negative or affectionate

反義詞
  • conventional

    following accepted standards or traditional ways of doing things

  • traditional

    based on long-established customs or beliefs

  • orthodox

    strictly following accepted or official beliefs and methods

用法筆記

Has a neutral to positive tone. Unlike 'abnormal' or 'strange,' unconventional often implies creativity, originality, or independent thinking rather than something wrong or undesirable.

常見錯誤

His clothing was unconventional and ugly.
His clothing was unconventional and drew a lot of attention.
💡unconventional is not inherently negative; avoid pairing it with strongly negative adjectives unless the context is clearly critical.