odd man out
Definition
Noun Phrase A person who is perceived as different, eccentric, or not fitting in with the rest of a group. This person stands out due to their distinct characteristics, behavior, or opinions.
Usage
This phrase is used to identify an individual who is noticeably different from the others in a specific set or social context. It often carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying isolation or non-conformity.
Examples
- In every class, there seems to be one odd man out who prefers reading to playing sports.
- At the business meeting, John was the odd man out because he disagreed with the popular investment strategy.
- All her friends loved the movie, but she was the odd man out who thought it was boring.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can be applied to objects or concepts that do not match a set.
- In that collection of modern paintings, the classical portrait was the odd man out.
- It can be used in games or selection processes to denote the person left without a partner or match.
- When we divided into teams, Sarah was the odd man out, so she became the referee.
Variants and Related Words
- Odd one out: A more gender-neutral and common variant with identical meaning.
- In terms of political views, he's always been the odd one out in his family.
- Outsider: (Noun) A person who does not belong to a particular group.
- Misfit: (Noun) A person whose behavior or attitude sets them apart from others in an uncomfortable or awkward way.
Synonyms
- Nonconformist
- Exception
- Maverick
- Loner
Antonyms
- Conformist
- Insider
- One of the crowd
Related Idioms
- A square peg in a round hole: Used to describe a person who is a poor fit for a particular situation or role.
- To march to the beat of one's own drum: To behave in a way that is different from the norm; emphasizes deliberate individuality rather than accidental exclusion.
Noun
-
someone regarded as eccentric or crazy and standing out from a group
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