Definition

In a way that is not common or typical; something that happens rarely or differently from what is expected.

Example

She dressed unusually for the occasion, wearing a bright pink suit instead of the usual black dress.

Conversation

Have you noticed that the weather has been unusually warm for this time of year?

Yeah, it feels more like summer than fall!

I wonder if this is a sign of climate change or just a fluke.

Could be either, but it’s definitely not what I expected.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unusually → It is formed from the prefix "un-" (meaning not) and the root "usual" (from Latin "usualis", meaning customary or habitual) with the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unusually" means in a manner that is not customary or habitual.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'usual' to remember that 'unusually' describes something that is not typical or customary.

Visually Confused Words