being strange

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being strange" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone or something that exhibits unusual or odd behavior or characteristics. An example is: "She has a talent for being strange in a way that captivates everyone." Alternative expressions include "acting odd," "being unusual," and "displaying eccentricity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Kirt Honeycutt of The Hollywood Reporter praised the film for being "strange yet strangely beguiling" for capturing Jackson in "feverish grips of pure creativity" and stated that while the film presents that audience with a screen filled with everyone ranging from "performers, musicians, choreographers, crew members, craftsmen", she took notice that the film had primarily focused on Jackson.

Wikipedia

After praising Doughty's travelogue "Arabia Deserta" (the "words that exactly describe," the sentences that "meander"), he reflects on the benefits of war for the writer: it sends him out into territory — though it "may well be at home" — that, by being strange and demanding the acceptance of strangeness, forces him to develop a pure, honest, singular style that "shall be his monument".

The New Yorker

I need to keep being strange".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

After a few repetitions, a sample becomes known but doesn't necessarily stop being strange.

The New Yorker

She was accustomed to being strange, and getting us to admit that we liked it.

The New Yorker

That didn't make it worthless; in some ways, it was more effective for being strange.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

It will be strange.

The New York Times - Sports

She was strange.

The New Yorker

She's strange today.

The New Yorker

What was strange?

The New York Times

And it is strange.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "being strange" to describe a state of unusualness or eccentricity, especially when discussing personal qualities or characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using "being strange" in contexts where a more neutral or positive term like "unique" or "original" would be more appropriate. "Strange" can sometimes imply negativity or discomfort, so consider your audience and the desired tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being strange" functions primarily as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the state or act of possessing unusual or peculiar qualities. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is generally considered grammatically correct and is used to depict something diverging from the ordinary.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

13%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being strange" is a gerund phrase frequently used to describe something as unusual or peculiar. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness. Although sometimes carrying slightly negative connotations, its usage is versatile and context-dependent. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it effectively conveys deviation from the norm. Alternatives like "acting peculiar" or "displaying eccentricity" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exhibiting strangeness

Focuses on the act of showing or displaying strangeness.

acting peculiar

Emphasizes behavior that deviates from the norm.

displaying eccentricity

Highlights unconventional or unusual habits and characteristics.

demonstrating oddity

Stresses the presence and visibility of something odd.

behaving oddly

Similar to 'acting peculiar' but slightly more formal.

possessing unusual qualities

Highlights the inherent characteristics of something or someone.

having strange traits

Focuses on specific characteristics that are strange.

showing a strange side

Indicates a temporary or occasional display of strangeness.

existing strangely

Focuses on the state of existing in a strange manner.

manifesting as strange

Describes how strangeness is revealed or becomes apparent.

FAQs

How can I use "being strange" in a sentence?

You can use "being strange" to describe a person, thing, or situation that is unusual or peculiar. For example, "She is known for "being strange" and unconventional."

What are some alternatives to "being strange"?

Alternatives to "being strange" include "acting peculiar", "displaying eccentricity", or "exhibiting strangeness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "being strange"?

Not necessarily. While "strange" can sometimes have negative connotations, it can also be used to describe something that is simply unusual or intriguing. The context in which it's used is key.

What's the difference between "being strange" and "being unique"?

"Being unique" generally has positive connotations, emphasizing individuality and distinctiveness. "Being strange", on the other hand, can sometimes imply oddness or peculiarity that deviates from the norm in a more pronounced way. You could also use "being unconventional" or "being eccentric".