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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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quirky

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quirky" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unusual, unconventional, or has an eccentric charm. Example: "Her quirky sense of style always makes her stand out in a crowd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With events taking place at venues ranging from tiny, niche museums in Orkney and Norfolk to national giants such at the Natural History Museum and the V&A, the founding ethos of the festival is to celebrate the diverse and often quirky cultural landscape of Britain and to give a voice and platform to smaller institutions.

News & Media

The Guardian

This is where the city's Youth Hostel is located, but it is doubtful if even the most ardent traveller gets to discover the quirky Food & Art.

Her last film, excepting a quirky appearance as an nymphomaniac princess in Mike Hodges's Pulp (1972), was as a press agent who discovers country boy singer Elvis Presley in Loving You (1957) and sets him on the road to fame.

The result: an appealing, quirky cross of an alarm clock, picture frame, Internet radio and Web viewer.

Later today, London fashion week will witness the return of Vivienne Westwood - another British designer who mines the quirky 'British heritage meets punk' territory, and who usually shows abroad.

If you like vintage clothes, take a short walk to the famous Portobello Road market (Fridays and Saturdays), or pick up quirky trinkets from The Rise Gift Shop.

Next departure 3 December LARGE SHORT BREAK OPERATOR: HF HOLIDAYS 0845 470 8558, hfholidays.co.uk HF Holidays specialises in walking holidays but also offers a number of quirky leisure breaks to suit the most esoteric of hobbyists.

Pint from £3.50, 1 King Street, 01223 855185, thecambridgebrewhouse.com Tucked away off Portugal Place, the Maypole's quirky covered terrace – which has its own dedicated serving hatch – is a great place to swerve the tourist hordes on a sunny day.

In his quirky way Bennett is the playwright, rather as JB Priestley once was, of the post-industrial England of which so many in the south are both ignorant and disdainful.

Uruguay v Argentina would normally be a pick-of-the-bunch game but with Argentina's progress long since secured and Uruguay clutching at the longest of straws, it looks like Oscar Tabarez's team are resigned to another quirky inter-confederation play-off to haul themselves to Brazil.

Among his many idiosyncrasies – he spoke to the Guardian in March about his imaginary horse – is a quirky run-up, which he starts from a lunging position.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person as "quirky", ensure the context is supportive and that the description doesn't come across as diminishing or mocking their individuality.

Common error

Avoid using "quirky" to describe something that is inherently negative or malicious. While it denotes something strange, it often carries a positive or neutral connotation of harmless eccentricity, rather than outright badness.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

93%

Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The word "quirky" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something with peculiar or unconventional attributes. As Ludwig AI notes, the examples show its use in various contexts, always denoting a distinctiveness that sets the modified noun apart.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

18%

Lifestyle

12%

Less common in

Sport

8%

Film

7%

Tech

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quirky" is a versatile adjective used to describe something as unconventional and interestingly peculiar. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and commonly employed across varied contexts, from news and media to lifestyle and travel. The term generally carries a positive or neutral connotation, adding charm and distinctiveness to descriptions. While alternatives like "eccentric" or "idiosyncratic" exist, "quirky" offers a unique nuance that balances strangeness with endearment. Therefore, it's important to use "quirky" judiciously, ensuring it aligns with the intended tone and context of your writing.

FAQs

How can I use "quirky" in a sentence?

You can use "quirky" to describe something that is unusual or eccentric in an interesting or appealing way. For example, "The shop sold "quirky antiques"" or "She had a "quirky sense of humor"".

What are some synonyms for "quirky"?

Alternatives to "quirky" include "eccentric", "idiosyncratic", "unconventional", and "peculiar". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a person as "quirky"?

Yes, it can be appropriate, but consider the context. Using "quirky" to describe someone suggests they have unusual or interesting traits. Ensure your intention is positive and not dismissive or mocking. A safer alternative could be "unconventional".

What's the difference between "quirky" and "weird"?

"Quirky" often carries a positive or neutral connotation, suggesting something interestingly unusual, while "weird" tends to be more negative, implying something disturbing or unsettling. Consider if "peculiar" or "eccentric" might be better alternatives.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: