What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
queer
Example
The old house had a queer smell that I couldn't quite place. [queer: adjective]
Example
I have a queer feeling that something bad is going to happen. [queer: adjective]
Example
She's always been a bit queer, but that's what makes her so interesting. [queer: adjective]
bizarre
Example
The fashion show featured some truly bizarre outfits that no one would ever wear. [bizarre: adjective]
Example
The magician performed some bizarre tricks that left the audience stunned. [bizarre: adjective]
Example
The story he told was so bizarre that I had trouble believing it. [bizarre: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bizarre is more commonly used than queer in everyday language, especially in American English. However, both words are less common than other synonyms for strange or unusual.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between queer and bizarre?
Both queer and bizarre are informal words that are not typically used in formal writing or speech. However, bizarre may be slightly more formal than queer due to its French origin.
