it was uncanny

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was uncanny" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is strange, mysterious, or unsettling in a way that evokes a sense of eeriness or surprise. Example: "As I walked through the abandoned house, the silence was so profound that it was uncanny."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Opinion

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

We all rejoiced at his Ray, and its Oscar, and as we watched the movie it was uncanny how Foxx - of a very different physique - caught and refreshed the mannerisms and negotiated the sly manipulator in, and the charming self-deceit of, Ray Charles.

The Guardian - Film

It was uncanny.

The New Yorker

"It was uncanny," says Setlak.

The Guardian

It was uncanny how well he played.

The New York Times - Sports

It was uncanny camp, at best.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It was uncanny," Ms. Goodell said.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

It's uncanny.

The New York Times

In fact, it's uncanny.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is uncanny how frequently this happens.

Harvard Business Review

Yes, it's uncanny and excruciating.

The Guardian

And it is uncanny when life imitates Hollywood.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was uncanny", consider the emotional impact you want to create. The phrase often conveys a sense of unease or wonder, so use it in contexts where those feelings are appropriate.

Common error

While "it was uncanny" is effective, overuse can diminish its impact. Be mindful of varying your descriptive language to avoid monotony and maintain the phrase's effectiveness. Instead, use alternatives such as "it felt surreal", or "it seemed preternatural".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was uncanny" functions as a descriptive expression, typically used to convey a sense of strangeness or something being remarkably odd. Ludwig examples show its uses across diverse contexts, highlighting its versatility in expressing unexpected or eerie coincidences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Arts

10%

Sports

5%

Less common in

Opinion

4%

Lifestyle

3%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was uncanny" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe situations that are remarkably strange or coincidental. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and applicability in diverse writing contexts. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously to maintain its impact. With a neutral register, it fits well in both formal and informal settings, making it a valuable addition to your descriptive vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was deeply unsettling

Focuses on the disturbance or disquiet caused by the situation, emphasizing the emotional impact.

it felt surreal

Emphasizes the dreamlike or unreal quality of the situation, focusing on the feeling of detachment from reality.

it struck me as eerie

Highlights the unsettling or spooky nature of the observation, emphasizing a sense of unease.

it seemed preternatural

Suggests that the event or situation appeared to be beyond the realm of what is normal or natural.

it was strangely familiar

Indicates a peculiar recognition or sense of knowing something despite not having encountered it before.

it had an otherworldly quality

Focuses on the sense that the situation was not of this world, emphasizing its ethereal or alien nature.

it gave me the creeps

Implies a feeling of disgust or fear due to something strange or unpleasant.

it bordered on the supernatural

Suggests that the situation was close to being unexplainable by natural law, hinting at paranormal involvement.

it defied explanation

Highlights the impossibility of understanding or rationalizing the event, suggesting its mysterious nature.

it was like something out of a movie

Implies that the event was so extraordinary or dramatic that it resembled a scene from a film.

FAQs

What does "it was uncanny" mean?

The phrase "it was uncanny" describes something that is strangely remarkable or mysterious, often suggesting a feeling of unease because the situation is so odd or coincidental. It implies that something is unsettlingly strange or difficult to explain.

How can I use "it was uncanny" in a sentence?

You can use "it was uncanny" to describe a wide range of situations where something seems strangely coincidental or eerily accurate. For example, "It was uncanny how much the new employee resembled my old friend" or "It was uncanny that both predictions came true."

What are some synonyms for "it was uncanny"?

Some synonyms for "it was uncanny" include "it was eerie", "it was strange", "it was unsettling", "it was remarkable", or "it was peculiar". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "it was uncanny" in formal writing?

Yes, "it was uncanny" can be used in formal writing, although it's more common in narrative or descriptive contexts where conveying a sense of wonder or unease is appropriate. Consider the tone and audience of your writing to ensure it aligns with the overall message.