What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
untypical
Example
His untypical behavior surprised everyone at the party. [untypical: adjective]
Example
The weather this year has been untypical for this region. [untypical: adjective]
atypical
Example
Her atypical approach to problem-solving impressed her colleagues. [atypical: adjective]
Example
The patient's symptoms were atypical for this disease. [atypical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Atypical is more commonly used than untypical in everyday language and is more versatile in terms of formality and context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between untypical and atypical?
Atypical is more formal than untypical and is often used in academic or technical writing, while untypical is more casual and informal.