uniquely
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /juːnˈiːkli/
US
- /juˈnikli/
Description
- in a special way
- in a one-of-a-kind way
- differently from others
- in a way only this can
If something is uniquely beautiful, it is not just pretty; it has a special kind of beauty that stands apart. Think of a snowflake: each one is formed in its own way, and no two are exactly alike. You might also say a musician plays the guitar uniquely, meaning their style sounds different from everyone else's. The word can also mean that only this person or thing can do something in that way. For example, a teacher may be uniquely able to calm a nervous class, or a building may be uniquely placed to catch the morning light. So "uniquely" often describes a special, different, or only-possible way.
The word "uniquely" describes the way something is done, exists, or stands out. Very often, it means "in a special or one-of-a-kind way." It can point to something that is unlike anything else, but it can also mean that only this person, place, or thing has the right qualities for a certain role or result.
Imagine an old lighthouse standing on a rocky coast. It is not just a lighthouse; it is uniquely positioned to warn ships away from danger, with a place and purpose that no other structure has in quite the same way. Or think of a chef who blends spices uniquely, creating flavors that feel personal and hard to copy.
"Uniquely" is not simply about being different. It usually suggests that something stands out because of a special quality, character, or situation. You might say, "The artist is uniquely talented," meaning the artist has a rare kind of skill. You might also say, "This town is uniquely charming," meaning its feeling is different from that of other towns in a memorable way.
Another very common use appears in phrases like "uniquely qualified," "uniquely suited," or "uniquely able." In these cases, the word does not only mean "different." It means that someone or something has a special advantage, fit, or ability that others do not have. For example, a local guide may be uniquely qualified to lead hikers through a dangerous mountain path because she knows every turn and weather pattern.
While the word is often used for positive things like beauty, talent, or charm, it can also describe neutral or negative cases. A disease might affect one group uniquely, or a problem might be uniquely difficult, meaning it behaves in a way not seen elsewhere.
So when something happens uniquely, it happens in a way that is especially its own, or in a way that only that person or thing can manage. The word often carries a feeling of distinction, but its core idea is simple: there is something special, different, or only-possible about the way it is happening.
Examples
- 1
Personal voice
Even in a crowded field, her writing feels uniquely her own.
- 2
Study schedule
The online course is uniquely suited to people who need to study at night.
Pattern
suited to + person/need
right for that person or need
- 3
Professional expertise
With experience in both law and medicine, she was uniquely qualified to lead the review.
- 4
Special perspective
Having grown up in both countries, he is uniquely positioned to understand the disagreement.
Pattern
uniquely positioned to + verb
in a specially strong situation to do it
- 5
Cultural style
The film is slow and quiet in a way that feels uniquely Scandinavian.
- 6
National comparison
The pressure to look successful online is not uniquely American.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- uniquelyadverb