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uniquely

C2
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /juːnˈiːkli/

US

  • /juˈnikli/

Description

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.

Examples

  1. 1

    Personal voice

    Even in a crowded field, her writing feels uniquely her own.

  2. 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. 3

    Professional expertise

    With experience in both law and medicine, she was uniquely qualified to lead the review.

  4. 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. 5

    Cultural style

    The film is slow and quiet in a way that feels uniquely Scandinavian.

  6. 6

    National comparison

    The pressure to look successful online is not uniquely American.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • uniquelyadverb