uncommon

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈkʌmən/

KK: /ʌnˈkɑːmən/

adjective

Definition

Something that is not frequently found or seen; it is rare or unusual.

Example

Finding a four-leaf clover is quite uncommon.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more uncommon

Superlative: most uncommon

Conversation

Have you tried that new restaurant downtown?

Not yet, but I've heard their dishes are quite uncommon.

Yeah, I love trying uncommon flavors in my meals.

Same here! It makes dining out much more exciting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

rare

unusual

extraordinary

Antonyms

common

ordinary

usual

Root Explanation

Uncommon → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "common" (from Old French *comun*, meaning shared by all or usual). The word "uncommon" means not usual or not shared by all, indicating rarity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') and something that is 'shared by all' ('common') to remember that 'uncommon' refers to something that is rare or not usual.

Visually Confused Words

encommon