an uncommon instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an uncommon instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or occurrence that is rare or not frequently observed. Example: "The scientist noted that the discovery of such a phenomenon was an uncommon instance in the field of research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is not an uncommon case in today's applications of WMNs, for instance, in the application of Internet access.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

This collaboration is exciting because it's an all too uncommon instance of a pop star enlisting a fine artist to actualise the ideas they've spent years thinking about.

Vice

This collaboration is exciting because it's an all too uncommon instance of a pop star enlisting a fine artist to actualize the ideas they've spent years thinking about.

Vice

For example, the detailed analysis of the 23S rRNA genes of T. tengcongensis showed only in uncommon instance (10 of 115 point substitutions) a point substitution altered the 2° structure.

Plosone

In very uncommon instances, the person declines this option of a regular telephone contact as well.

Dementia

Despite being listed as an uncommon toxicity, nine instances of grade 3/4 non-fasting hypertriglyceridaemia, at levels corresponding to the 'high risk' (>10 mmol l−1) or 'very high risk' (>20 mmol l−1) categories for development of potentially life-threatening acute pancreatitis, were noted anecdotally during 2007.

British Journal of Cancer

For instance, if a hospital treats a young child with an uncommon ailment, the data it collects in the process often goes unseen and unheard of by doctors at other hospitals.

The New Yorker

For instance, in Nicaragua, proteinuria was the predominant factor seen among CKD patients; an uncommon trend given that eGFR is usually more prominent [ 36].

BMC Nephrology

This instance of what preppies used to call "worshiping at the porcelain shrine" is hardly an uncommon theater sight nowadays.

Huffington Post

Rudolph had an uncommon upbringing.

The Guardian - Film

This is an uncommon experience.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an uncommon instance", ensure that the context clearly establishes what makes the instance uncommon. Provide specific details to highlight its rarity or exceptional nature.

Common error

Avoid using "an uncommon instance" when describing something that is merely slightly unusual. Reserve it for situations that are genuinely rare or exceptional to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an uncommon instance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an uncommon instance" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote something rare or infrequent. While Ludwig AI verifies its correctness, it's essential to consider the context and ensure the situation genuinely warrants such a description. The phrase appears across various domains, with slight preference for scientific and news-related content. For increased readability, explore related alternatives like "a rare occurrence" or "an infrequent case". Remember to use "an uncommon instance" accurately to maintain clarity and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rare occurrence

Emphasizes the infrequency of the event.

an infrequent case

Highlights that the situation doesn't happen often.

an exceptional example

Focuses on the unusual and possibly positive nature of the instance.

an atypical situation

Indicates that the scenario deviates from the norm.

an isolated incident

Stresses the singularity and lack of connection to other events.

a unique event

Highlights the distinct and unparalleled nature of the occurrence.

an unusual circumstance

Focuses on the odd and peculiar nature of the conditions.

a rare phenomenon

Highlights a rare and remarkable event.

an exceptional case

Indicates a deviation from the usual or expected.

a singular instance

Emphasizes the unique and individual nature of the event.

FAQs

How can I use "an uncommon instance" in a sentence?

You can use "an uncommon instance" to describe a situation or occurrence that is rare or not frequently observed. For example: "The scientist noted that the discovery of such a phenomenon was "an uncommon instance" in the field of research."

What are some alternatives to "an uncommon instance"?

Alternatives include "a rare occurrence", "an infrequent case", or "an exceptional example", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "an uncommon instance" or "a rare instance"?

Both "an uncommon instance" and "a rare instance" are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on personal preference, although "a rare instance" might be slightly more common in everyday usage.

What distinguishes "an uncommon instance" from "a common instance"?

"An uncommon instance" refers to something that doesn't happen often, while "a common instance" is something that occurs frequently or is typical.