Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else: "unique" describes something that is singular, one-of-a-kind, or without an equal.
   • Particularly remarkable, special, or unusual: "unique" can also describe something that is extraordinary or distinctive in a notable way.
   • (Often followed by 'to') Restricted to; existing only in a specific place, situation, or category: This usage indicates exclusivity to a particular context.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The artist has a unique style that is instantly recognizable.
  • This manuscript is unique; no other copies are known to exist.
  • The problem has a unique solution that we must find.
  • The koala is an animal unique to Australia.

Advanced Usage

• "unique to": Applying or belonging exclusively to a specified thing.
  • This custom is unique to the island's indigenous population.
• "absolutely unique" / "truly unique": Used for emphasis, though purists argue "unique" is an absolute term that cannot be modified. In common usage, these phrases stress exceptional distinctiveness.
  • The geological formation is truly unique.
• "in a unique position": Having an opportunity or perspective that no one else has.
  • Our company is in a unique position to bridge these two markets.

Variants and Related Words

• Uniquely (adverb): In a way that is unlike anything else.
  • She is uniquely qualified for this role.
• Uniqueness (noun): The quality of being one of a kind.
  • The uniqueness of her voice made her a star.

Synonyms

• Singular: Being the only one of its kind.
• Unequaled: Better than any other.
• Unparalleled: Having no parallel or equal.
• Distinctive: Characteristic of one person or thing, serving to distinguish it.

Antonyms

• Common: Occurring, found, or done often.
• Ordinary: With no special or distinctive features.
• Usual: Habitually or typically occurring or done.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• In a class of its own: So good that it is considered separately from other things of its type.
  • As a strategist, she is in a class of her own.
• One of a kind: The only one like it.
  • This vintage car is truly one of a kind.

Adjective

1. highly unusual or rare but not the single instance
   • spoke with a unique accent
   • had unique ability in raising funds
   • a frankness unique in literature
   • a unique dining experience
2. the single one of its kind
   • a singular example
   • the unique existing example of Donne's handwriting
   • a unique copy of an ancient manuscript
   • certain types of problems have unique solutions
3. (followed by `to') applying exclusively to a given category or condition or locality
   • a species unique to Australia
4. radically distinctive and without equal
   • he is alone in the field of microbiology
   • this theory is altogether alone in its penetration of the problem
   • Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint
   • craftsmen whose skill is unequaled
   • unparalleled athletic ability
   • a breakdown of law unparalleled in our history