C1adjective2K

Peculiar

UK /["/pɪˈkjuːliə(r)/"]/US /["/pɪˈkjuːliər/"]/

Definition

strange or unusual, especially in a way that is unpleasant or makes you worried

In simple words: strange or unusual

Examples

  • She has a peculiar way of speaking that makes her stand out in any crowd.
  • The peculiar smell coming from the kitchen made me curious about what was cooking.
  • His behavior at the meeting was peculiar, as he kept changing the topic unpredictably.
  • This plant is peculiar to the region and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
  • It is peculiar that no one noticed the mistake earlier.
  • The town has a peculiarity: all houses have blue doors, which is quite a peculiar tradition.

Usage notes

Use 'peculiar' to describe something that is odd or different from what is normal. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid overusing it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Peculiar sounds like 'peculiar' — imagine a peculiar alien with strange features.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • most
  • very
  • quite
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • most
  • very
  • quite

Synonyms

  • odd
  • strange
  • unusual
  • weird
  • quirky

Antonyms

  • normal
  • common
  • ordinary

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'peculiar' with 'particular'
  • Using 'peculiar' in contexts that require more specific adjectives
  • Overusing 'peculiar' in everyday situations