is unprecedented

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is unprecedented" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has never happened before, or something that is without parallel. Example: The devastation caused by the hurricane is unprecedented in this region, with entire towns being destroyed and widespread power outages.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"And this is unprecedented".

The New York Times

It is unprecedented, really.

The New Yorker

The trial is unprecedented.

The New Yorker

That is unprecedented.

Independent

Such a gathering is unprecedented.

The Economist

"It is unprecedented in scale".

The New York Times

The situation is unprecedented.

The Guardian

"But this is unprecedented.

The New York Times

"This is unprecedented here".

The New York Times

So this is unprecedented.

The New Yorker

What happened is unprecedented".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is unprecedented" to highlight the unique nature of an event, situation, or achievement, emphasizing its lack of historical parallel. This amplifies the significance and impact of your subject.

Common error

Avoid using "is unprecedented" for situations that are simply unusual or uncommon, rather than truly having no historical precedent. Overusing this phrase dilutes its impact and can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

"Is unprecedented" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the subject as something that has never occurred before. It serves to emphasize the novelty and exceptional nature of the subject. Examples from Ludwig, such as "The situation is unprecedented", illustrate this descriptive function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is unprecedented" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote that something has never happened before. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. This expression commonly appears in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, highlighting events with no historical parallel. While its register is neutral, its impact is greatest when reserved for genuinely novel situations. Alternatives like "is unparalleled" and "is unmatched" offer similar meanings. Overusing the phrase, however, can diminish its effect. Remember to reserve "is unprecedented" for situations that truly warrant the description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is without precedent

Emphasizes the lack of any prior occurrence, similar to the original phrase.

is unparalleled

Highlights the uniqueness and lack of comparable instances.

is unmatched

Focuses on the superior or unequaled nature of the subject.

is unrivaled

Indicates that the subject has no competitors or equals.

is exceptional

Stresses the unusual and outstanding quality of the subject.

is extraordinary

Emphasizes the remarkable and atypical nature of the subject.

is unheard of

Highlights the novelty and unfamiliarity of the subject.

is novel

Focuses on the newness and originality of the subject.

is groundbreaking

Highlights the innovative and pioneering nature of the subject.

is a first of its kind

Directly states the subject's status as the initial instance.

FAQs

How can I use "is unprecedented" in a sentence?

Use "is unprecedented" to describe something that has never happened, existed, or been done before. For example, "The level of public support for the policy is unprecedented."

What are some alternatives to "is unprecedented"?

You can use alternatives such as "is unparalleled", "is unmatched", or "is extraordinary" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "this is unprecedented"?

Yes, "this is unprecedented" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe something that has never occurred before.

What's the difference between "is unprecedented" and "is unique"?

"Is unprecedented" implies that something has never happened before, while "is unique" simply means that something is one of a kind. Something unique may still have similarities to other things, but something "is unprecedented" has no prior parallel.