unconventional
/'ʌnkən'venʃənl/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Not based on or conforming to what is generally done or believed: Refers to ideas, methods, or lifestyles that differ from the usual, traditional, or widely accepted standards.
- Not adhering to convention; unorthodox: Describes behavior, appearance, or practices that are original, independent, or deviate from social norms.
Usage and Examples
Describing methods or ideas:
- The artist's unconventional techniques shocked the traditional art community.
- She proposed an unconventional solution to the engineering problem.
Describing behavior or lifestyle:
- They lead an unconventional life, traveling the world in a van.
- His unconventional views on education made him a controversial figure.
Describing appearance:
- Her unconventional dress sense made her stand out in the conservative office.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
"Unconventional wisdom": A perspective or insight that challenges the commonly accepted view or "conventional wisdom."
- The book offers unconventional wisdom on personal finance and investing.
Used to imply creativity, innovation, or nonconformity, often with a positive connotation of being free from restrictive traditions.
- The company's success is built on its unconventional approach to management.
Variants and Related Words
Unconventionally (adverb): In a way that is not based on or conforming to convention.
- The room was decorated unconventionally, with furniture hanging from the ceiling.
Unconventionality (noun): The quality of being unconventional.
- The unconventionality of his writing style attracted a cult following.
Synonyms
- Unorthodox: Contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted.
- Nontraditional: Not following long-established customs or practices.
- Alternative: (Of one or more things) available as another possibility or choice, often outside the mainstream.
Antonyms
- Conventional: Based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.
- Traditional: Existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established.
- Orthodox: Conforming to what is generally or traditionally accepted as right or true.
Idioms and Phrases
- "To buck convention" / "To flout convention": To openly disregard or reject conventional rules or practices. This is a related concept describing the action behind being unconventional.
- The designer has always flouted convention with her bold creations.
Adjective
- not conforming to legality, moral law, or social convention
- an unconventional marriage
- improper banking practices
- not conventional or conformist
- unconventional life styles
- not conforming to accepted rules or standards
- her unconventional dress and hair style