rare bird
Definition
Noun: A person who is unusual, exceptional, or one of a kind; someone with unique qualities, interests, or characteristics that make them stand out from others.
Usage
This term is used to describe an individual who is notably different or uncommon in a positive or intriguing way. It emphasizes rarity and distinctiveness.
Examples
- He's a rare bird in the tech industry—a CEO who is also a classically trained pianist.
- A true scholar with such humility is a rare bird these days.
- She collects 18th-century nautical maps; she's a real rare bird.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can sometimes carry a slightly whimsical or admiring tone, acknowledging someone's uniqueness without negative judgment.
- It is typically used in singular form ("a rare bird"). The plural "rare birds" is grammatically possible but less common.
Variants and Related Words
- Rarity (n): The state of being rare. While "rare bird" refers specifically to a person, "rarity" can refer to any rare thing or quality.
- Such honesty is a rarity in politics.
- Odd bird (n, informal): A similar idiom, but it can imply a stronger sense of eccentricity or strangeness.
Synonyms
- Unicorn (informal, modern)
- One of a kind
- Exception
- Nonconformist
Idioms
- A rare breed: A very similar idiom with identical meaning and usage.
- Teachers who inspire every student are a rare breed.
Noun
-
a rare or unique person
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