an unusual idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unusual idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a concept or thought that is not typical or expected. Example: "The scientist proposed an unusual idea that challenged the existing theories in her field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It's an unusual idea to say the least".

The Guardian

In 2001 the artist Zoe Strauss came up with an unusual idea for an exhibition.

The New York Times - Arts

At a planning session, the mayor, Dave Bing, hears an unusual idea.

The New Yorker

It's such an unusual idea today, that only one model of anything could reside in every home.

The New York Times

But an unusual idea came to her. "Garages at night are solitary and dark and filled with tension," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

Johnson) ★ Philadelphia Museum of Art: 'Zoe Strauss: Ten Years' (through April 22) In 2001 the artist Zoe Strauss came up with an unusual idea for an exhibition.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The next passer-by, an Australian named Colin Duncan, had a more unusual idea.

The New York Times

It was a pretty unusual idea and many friends made it quite clear they thought it was daft.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

John Corey Whaley turned a creative and unusual idea into a gripping page turner for young adult readers.

The Guardian

The authors of the book I Can't Believe It's a Bigger and Better Updated Unofficial Simpsons Guide, Warren Martyn and Adrian Wood, called it "A clever, and rather unusual, idea for an episode that shows a frightening bitchiness beneath the middle-class veneer of smalltown businesswomen".

Wikipedia

This is actually an exotic and unusual idea to convert light into liquid and solid phases which is unprecedented.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unusual idea", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the idea unusual. Providing specific details helps the audience understand its novelty or departure from the norm.

Common error

Avoid using "an unusual idea" as a vague descriptor. Instead of simply labeling an idea as unusual, explain why it is unusual. Without context, the phrase loses its impact and can come across as lazy writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unusual idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "unusual" modifies the noun "idea". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts to introduce concepts that are not typical or expected.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

16%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unusual idea" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that introduces a concept deviating from the norm. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples across various contexts, including news, media, and science. While its register is generally neutral, understanding the specific context will help you choose the most appropriate alternative, such as "a novel concept" or "an unconventional notion", for greater precision. When using this phrase, ensure that you explain why the idea is unusual to maximize its impact and avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a novel concept

Emphasizes the newness and originality of the idea.

an unconventional notion

Highlights the departure from established norms.

a peculiar thought

Suggests the idea is odd or strange.

an innovative approach

Focuses on the idea's potential for progress and improvement.

a groundbreaking concept

Implies the idea is revolutionary and influential.

a singular idea

Underlines the uniqueness and distinctiveness of the idea.

an offbeat proposal

Indicates the idea is quirky or eccentric.

a strange concept

Highlights the unfamiliarity or bizarreness of the idea.

a far-out suggestion

Suggests the idea is outlandish and imaginative.

an unexpected thought

Emphasizes the surprise element of the idea.

FAQs

How can I use "an unusual idea" in a sentence?

You can use "an unusual idea" to introduce a concept that deviates from the norm, such as, "The entrepreneur presented "an unusual idea" for sustainable packaging at the conference."

What are some alternatives to saying "an unusual idea"?

Alternatives include "a novel concept", "an unconventional notion", or "a peculiar thought", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Each of these "a novel concept", "an unconventional notion", or "a peculiar thought" emphasizes a different aspect of the idea's departure from the ordinary.

Is it better to say "an unusual idea" or "a unique idea"?

While both phrases suggest novelty, "an unusual idea" implies something out of the ordinary, whereas "a unique idea" stresses that it is one-of-a-kind. The best choice depends on whether you want to highlight the idea's strangeness or its singularity.

What makes "an unusual idea" effective in writing?

The effectiveness of "an unusual idea" lies in its ability to capture attention and pique curiosity. It prompts the audience to consider perspectives and possibilities they may not have previously entertained, making your writing more engaging and thought-provoking.