a unique breed of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a unique breed of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a distinct category or type of something, often emphasizing its special characteristics. Example: "She is a unique breed of artist, combining traditional techniques with modern technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

They are a unique breed of masochists, invariably destined to deal with everything their sport has to throw at them except acclaim.

The Guardian - Sport

A unique breed of civet cat roams the limestone plateaus that are seamed with gorges carved by rushing streams, and spiked by finger-like granite towers rising to 1,500 metres.

The Economist

Military families are a unique breed of Americans.

Huffington Post

IGN also repeatedly named him a character they wished to see in the crossover fighting series Super Smash Bros., describing him an "intimidating hero", a "unique breed of ass kicker" and one of the best things to happen to the Resident Evil series.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But even beyond these statistics, argued Mr. Oliu, soccer fans are a "unique breed".

The New York Times

A unique breed.'".

Vice

These animals were developed into a unique breed by the Navajo, today called the Navajo-Churro.

Wikipedia

Subsequent DNA testing showed them to be a unique breed that formed a separate population from other local ponies and from other breeds in Ireland and Great Britain.

Wikipedia

If you're a tourist, here's the most effective way of identifying a bobo: They are that unique breed of dickhead who, when you ask for directions, will smirk at you like you've just confused APC for YMC or some equally embarrassing oversight before ignoring you completely.

Vice

If you're a tourist, here's the most effective way of identifying a bobo: They are that unique breed of dickhead who, when you ask for directions, will smirk at you like you've just confused APC for YMC – or some equally embarrassing oversight – before ignoring you completely.

Vice

Having the total package – cute face, singing talent and sometimes a greasy torso – is a strong factor, but the existence of this unique breed of entertainer is also helped by having a certain likeability.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a unique breed of" when you want to emphasize the exceptional or distinctive nature of a particular group or type. This phrase suggests that the subject possesses qualities that are not commonly found elsewhere.

Common error

While "a unique breed of" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive language to convey the specific qualities you wish to highlight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a unique breed of" functions as a qualifier, typically used to describe a group or category distinguished by particular characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its role in emphasizing distinctiveness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a unique breed of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for emphasizing the distinctiveness or exceptional qualities of a subject. While relatively rare in occurrence, as noted by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media and descriptive writing. To enhance formality or precision, consider alternatives such as "a distinctive type of" or "an exceptional variety of". It is important to note that examples are limited but consistent, confirming its acceptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinctive type of

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the type, focusing on characteristics that set it apart.

a special kind of

Highlights the special or particular nature of something, indicating it's not ordinary.

an exceptional variety of

Stresses the exceptional quality within a specific variety or category.

a remarkable sort of

Indicates something notable or worthy of attention due to its characteristics.

a one-of-a-kind class of

Emphasizes the uniqueness and exclusivity of the class or category being described.

an extraordinary form of

Highlights the unusual and remarkable nature of a specific form or manifestation.

a singular strain of

Focuses on the unique and individual qualities of a particular strain or lineage.

a peculiar sort of

Suggests something is unusual or slightly strange in its nature or characteristics.

an uncommon species of

Emphasizes the rarity and infrequency of a particular species or type.

a rare sort of

Indicates the infrequency and preciousness of something's characteristics.

FAQs

How can I use "a unique breed of" in a sentence?

Use "a unique breed of" to describe something exceptional. For example, "Military families are "a unique breed of" Americans."

What phrases are similar to "a unique breed of"?

Alternatives include "a distinctive type of", "a special kind of", or "an exceptional variety of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a unique breed of" in formal writing?

While acceptable, consider more precise language in highly formal contexts. For example, instead of saying "They are "a unique breed of" innovators", specify their defining characteristics.

What makes "a unique breed of" different from "a special type of"?

"A unique breed of" often implies not only distinctiveness but also a set of specific qualities that are particularly noteworthy or rare, whereas "a special type of" simply indicates something is not ordinary.