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untypical

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌntˈɪpɪkəl/

US

  • /ənˈtɪpɪkəl/

Description

If most cats are aloof and independent, a cat that constantly begs for cuddles could be described as untypical. It means not fitting what is usual, normal, or expected. Typical things follow a pattern; untypical things do not. You might describe a warm winter day as untypical, or a person acting in a way that is very different from their usual behavior. The word is understandable, but in everyday English, people often choose "atypical" or "unusual" instead.

Examples

  1. 1

    Local architecture

    The house is untypical of the area, with its flat roof and large glass windows.

    • Pattern

      untypical of + place/group

      not what is usual there or in that group

  2. 2

    Personal behavior

    It was untypical for Maya to arrive late, so I knew something was wrong.

    • Pattern

      untypical for + person + to do something

      not usual behavior for them

  3. 3

    Research limits

    The report focuses on an untypical case, so the results may not apply to everyone.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • untypicaladjective