What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unfamiliar
Example
I felt lost in the unfamiliar city. [unfamiliar: adjective]
Example
She spoke in an unfamiliar language that I couldn't understand. [unfamiliar: adjective]
unusual
Example
It's unusual to see snow in this part of the country. [unusual: adjective]
Example
He has an unusual talent for playing the harmonica. [unusual: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unusual is more commonly used than unfamiliar in everyday language. Unusual is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unfamiliar is less common and refers to a lack of knowledge or experience.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unfamiliar and unusual?
Both unfamiliar and unusual can be used in formal and informal contexts, but unusual may be more appropriate in formal writing due to its more specific meaning.
