A2adjective1K

Strange

UK /["/streɪndʒ/"]/US /["/streɪndʒ/"]/

Definition

unusual or surprising, especially in a way that is difficult to understand

In simple words: Unusual or odd; not normal.

Examples

  • That was a strange noise coming from the basement.
  • She had a strange feeling that something was not right.
  • His behavior was very strange at the party last night.
  • They visited a strange-looking building in the city.
  • It's strange how quickly time flies when you're having fun.
  • I met a strange man who claimed to have seen a UFO.

Usage notes

Use 'strange' to describe things that are not typical or expected. It can have a slightly negative connotation, depending on context, like feeling uncomfortable about something unfamiliar.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'strange' as sounds like 'range' – imagine a very odd range of unusual colors in a painting.

Collocations

  • appear
  • be
  • feel
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • to
  • strange and wonderful
  • appear
  • be
  • feel
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • to
  • strange and wonderful

Synonyms

  • odd
  • unusual
  • peculiar
  • weird
  • abnormal

Antonyms

  • normal
  • usual
  • common

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'strange' with 'stranger', which refers to a person unknown to you.
  • Using 'strange' when 'unusual' is more suitable in formal contexts.
  • Overusing 'strange' when describing common things.