Cool MateUnprecedented
UK /["/ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/"]/US /["/ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/"]/
Definition
that has never happened, been done or been known before
In simple words: Something that has never happened before.
Examples
- The situation is unprecedented in modern times.
- There were unprecedented scenes of violence in the city’s main square.
Usage notes
Use 'unprecedented' in academic or formal contexts, particularly when discussing events or changes. It's less common in casual conversation.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'un-precedented' as 'never had a precedent', meaning it’s completely new.
Collocations
- be
- entirely
- quite
- totally
Synonyms
- extraordinary
- unmatched
- unparalleled
- unheard-of
- novel
Antonyms
- precedented
- usual
- common
Common mistakes
- 'Unprecedented' is often confused with 'unforeseen' or 'unexpected'.
- 'Unprecedented' can be used incorrectly to describe something that is simply new, but it should refer to something never experienced before.