uncommonly

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈkʌmənli/

KK: /ʌnˈkʌmənli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that is not common or usual; to a degree that is rare or exceptional.

Example

She uncommonly excels in mathematics compared to her peers.

Conversation

I found an uncommonly good book at the library yesterday.

Really? What’s it about?

It’s a mystery novel, but the writing style is uncommonly engaging.

That sounds interesting! I might have to check it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unusually

exceptionally

remarkably

Antonyms

commonly

ordinarily

typically

Root Explanation

Uncommonly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "common" (from Latin "communis", meaning shared or belonging to all) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "uncommonly" means in a manner that is not common or unusual.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'shared' ('common') to remember that 'uncommonly' describes something that is not usual or rare.

Visually Confused Words