Uncommon
/ʌnˈkɒmən/
Definitions
2 meaningsNot usual; rare; infrequent.
/ʌnˈkɒmən/
Not often found, seen, or happening.
It is uncommon for such large birds to be seen in this area.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're walking down the street and you see a purple giraffe wearing a hat! That would be uncommon because you don't usually see giraffes wearing hats.
👶 For kids: If something is uncommon, it means it doesn't happen a lot. Like seeing a dog flying in the sky - that's uncommon!
More Examples
His level of dedication to the project was uncommon.
The uncommon beauty of the artwork captivated the audience.
How It's Used
"An uncommon bird sighting in the city."
"The plant had an uncommon beauty about it."
Remarkable; exceptional.
/ʌnˈkɒmən/
Remarkable or exceptional.
Her uncommon talent for playing the piano was recognized early.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is really, really good at something, like solving puzzles super fast. That person has an uncommon talent.
👶 For kids: If something is uncommon, it means it's really good or special. Like someone who's super good at drawing - that's uncommon!
More Examples
The company showed uncommon generosity in donating to the charity.
He displayed uncommon intelligence in solving the complex problem.
How It's Used
"He showed uncommon bravery during the crisis."
"The team demonstrated uncommon skill and strategy."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
uncommon knowledge
Knowledge or information that is not widely known or understood.
"The detective possessed uncommon knowledge about the case, which helped him solve it."
From Middle English *uncomun*, from Old French *un comun* (“not common”), equivalent to un- + common.
Used since the 14th century, reflecting a straightforward negation of commonality.
Memory tip
Think of something that is *un*like what is *common*.
Word Origin
"not common"