an uncommon situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an uncommon situation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a scenario that is not typical or frequently encountered. Example: "Finding a parking spot in this busy city during rush hour is truly an uncommon situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

In the technology boom of the late 90's, this was not an uncommon situation.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is not really the accountant's fault, and this is not an uncommon situation.

The New York Times

Amo said it was not an uncommon situation among young African women who come to the United States to work.

The New York Times

What do parents in our situation do? — Elizabeth This is not an uncommon situation in the current economy.

The New York Times

"This is not an uncommon situation where we issue a permit and things change," said Kenneth Stansell, assistant director for international affairs with the Fish and Wildlife Service.

The New York Times - Science

Finding the balance between social purpose and commercial viability is not an uncommon situation for social entrepreneurs to find themselves in.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The person, while alive, was not conscious of any uncommon situation of his heart.

The New York Times - Science

If you have a triangular or similar asymetrical (not rectangular or square) window on your house--a not uncommon situation with contemporary homes with clerestory windows--and you are seeking an effective form of sun control, you are in luck.

Los Angeles Times

Fuld served as both Chairman and CEO of Lehman Brothers, a not uncommon situation in corporate America where a CEO effectively reports to him or her self, evaluates his or her own performance and sets his or her own compensation.

Huffington Post

In the last years of Richard's reign, and particularly in the months after the suppression of the appellants in 1397, the king enjoyed a virtual monopoly on power in the country, a relatively uncommon situation in medieval England.

Wikipedia

He sees most global markets as fully valued, a somewhat uncommon situation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an uncommon situation", ensure the context clearly establishes what is considered common or typical to highlight the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "an uncommon situation" when describing something that is merely undesirable, rather than genuinely rare. Accurate language strengthens your point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an uncommon situation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a verb. It describes a particular set of circumstances that deviate from the norm. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

35%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an uncommon situation" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe scenarios that are not typical or frequently encountered. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. While suitable for various contexts, it finds frequent application in news, media, and scientific discussions. Alternatives like "an unusual circumstance" or "a rare occurrence" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Remember to use the phrase accurately, highlighting the deviation from the norm without overstating the rarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unusual circumstance

Replaces "situation" with "circumstance", emphasizing the specific conditions surrounding the event.

a rare occurrence

Focuses on the infrequency of the event, using stronger terms to highlight its rarity.

an infrequent event

Similar to "rare occurrence" but uses a slightly more formal tone.

an exceptional case

Highlights the deviation from the norm, framing it as an exception to the rule.

an atypical scenario

Replaces both "uncommon" and "situation" with synonyms, offering a more technical or analytical tone.

an extraordinary circumstance

Emphasizes the remarkable nature of the circumstance, highlighting its deviation from the ordinary.

a departure from the norm

Indicates a deviation from typical or expected behavior or conditions.

a break from tradition

Specifically refers to a deviation from established customs or practices.

an unprecedented event

Highlights the complete lack of prior instances, emphasizing its novelty.

an anomaly

Uses a more scientific term to describe something that deviates from the general rule or expectation.

FAQs

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

Use "an uncommon situation" to describe a scenario that deviates from the norm or what is typically expected. For example, "Finding a pristine, untouched beach these days is an uncommon situation".

What are some alternatives to "an uncommon situation"?

You can use alternatives like "an unusual circumstance", "a rare occurrence", or "an infrequent event" depending on the context.

Is "an uncommon situation" formal or informal?

"An uncommon situation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "an atypical scenario" may be preferred in academic or professional settings.

What is the difference between "an uncommon situation" and "an unprecedented event"?

"An uncommon situation" describes something that is not typical, while "an unprecedented event" refers to something that has never happened before. The latter implies a higher degree of novelty.