in a peculiar way

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a peculiar way" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unusual or distinctive manner of doing something. Example: "She approached the problem in a peculiar way that surprised everyone in the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a peculiar way, Iran inverts Vietnam.

The New Yorker

America calculates unemployment in a peculiar way.

The Guardian - Opinion

Technology had collided with Wall Street in a peculiar way.

The New York Times - Magazine

The dining room is impressive in a peculiar way.

The New York Times - Food

I started there in 1968, and in a peculiar way.

The New Yorker

LaBeouf's glide into performance art happened in a peculiar way.

The Guardian - Film

"It was about becoming a star, about wearing a hat in a peculiar way.

The New York Times

But it's also, in a peculiar way, the best way to start your trip to Cambodia.

Independent

In a peculiar way -- a quintessentially Japanese way -- everything was logical and yet nothing made sense.

The New York Times - Travel

It was, in a peculiar way, the exception that proved Mr. Aimard's point.

The New York Times - Arts

The organic-phosphate insecticides act on the living organism in a peculiar way.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for objectivity, consider rephrasing "in a peculiar way" for formal contexts. Use instead other alternatives such as "in a distinctive style" for clarity.

Common error

While the phrase "in a peculiar way" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or less precise. Vary your language by using synonyms like "in an unusual manner" or "in a strange fashion" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a peculiar way" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to describe how something is done. It adds a layer of specificity, indicating that the action or state is carried out in an unusual or distinct manner. Ludwig confirms this usage through its many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a peculiar way" functions as an adverbial phrase used to describe actions or situations that deviate from the norm. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and common in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While generally neutral, formal settings may benefit from more precise language. When writing, be mindful of overuse and consider synonyms to add variety. According to Ludwig, the phrase successfully conveys a sense of uniqueness or distinctiveness to the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in an unusual manner

Changes the adjective while maintaining the overall meaning of something being done oddly.

in a strange fashion

Replaces "peculiar" with "strange", suggesting something is odd or unfamiliar.

in an odd sort of way

Adds "sort of" to soften the description, implying something is slightly strange.

in a curious fashion

Substitutes "peculiar" with "curious", indicating something is interesting and unusual.

in a singular manner

Replaces "peculiar" with "singular", emphasizing uniqueness.

in a distinctive style

Focuses on the unique style or method in which something is done.

in an atypical fashion

Uses "atypical" instead of "peculiar" to highlight something deviates from the norm.

in an unconventional manner

Highlights the lack of conventionality in the way something is done.

in a funny kind of way

Indicates something is strange or amusing.

in a remarkable fashion

Suggests something is done in an exceptional and noticeable manner.

FAQs

What does "in a peculiar way" mean?

The phrase "in a peculiar way" means in an unusual, strange, or distinctive manner. It suggests that something is happening or being done in a way that is not typical or expected.

How can I use "in a peculiar way" in a sentence?

You can use "in a peculiar way" to describe actions, feelings, or situations that are odd or unique. For example, "She approached the problem "in a peculiar way", which surprised everyone."

What can I say instead of "in a peculiar way"?

You can use alternatives like "in an unusual manner", "in a strange fashion", or "in a distinctive style" depending on the specific context.

Is "in a peculiar way" formal or informal?

The phrase "in a peculiar way" is generally considered neutral in tone. While it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it is often better to use more precise language in formal settings for clarity. Alternatives such as "in a singular manner" might be appropriate.