What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peculiar
Example
The peculiar smell of the flowers attracted the bees. [peculiar: adjective]
Example
He has a peculiar way of speaking that makes him stand out. [peculiar: adjective]
unusual
Example
It's unusual to see snow in this part of the country. [unusual: adjective]
Example
She wore an unusual dress to the party. [unusual: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unusual is more commonly used than peculiar in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between peculiar and unusual?
Peculiar is more formal than unusual, which is more commonly used in informal contexts.
