seldom encountered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seldom encountered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is rarely seen or experienced. Example: "The rare species of bird is seldom encountered in this region, making it a prized sight for birdwatchers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Its remarkable tranquillity and beauty were qualities seldom encountered.

The Guardian

Although seldom encountered, the bushmaster is dangerous, with a potentially lethal venom.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I seldom encountered pot (other than in the magazine's art department) and was never offered LSD.

The Guardian

They crop up fairly often on orchestral programs, yet they are seldom encountered en masse.

The New Yorker

Jennings was composed against the spinners, the likes of which he has seldom encountered at Chester-le-Street Chester-le-Street Chester-le-Street

The Guardian - Sport

Pen scanners have aroused curiosity -- and sometimes, suspicion -- among a public that has seldom encountered them outside of spy novels.

The New York Times - Tech

Large vipers are abundant and varied; certain species have extremely toxic venom, but they are seldom encountered.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To demonstrate, Young played a state-supplied video of couples working through the sort of conflicts that are seldom encountered in Sooner Haven.

The New Yorker

For any real molecule, absolute separation of the different motions is seldom encountered since molecules are simultaneously undergoing rotation and vibration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And as for passionately loved things too seldom encountered, the London dealer Sam Fogg has this year again brought a significant cache of non-Indian Islamic art.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The most unusual wine was the 2010 Anomaly ($12.50), a seldom-encountered white pinot noir, from Anthony Nappa Wines.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seldom encountered" to describe something rare or unusual, adding a touch of formality to your writing. For instance, "Opportunities of this nature are seldom encountered in one's lifetime" conveys a stronger sense of rarity than simply saying "rarely seen".

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "seldom encountered" in casual conversation or informal writing may sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more common alternatives like "rarely seen" or "not often found" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seldom encountered" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is not often experienced or found. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seldom encountered" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase used to describe something that is rare or infrequently experienced. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While it can be slightly formal, its widespread presence across various sources like news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific publications suggests it is appropriate for neutral registers. Alternatives like "rarely seen" or "infrequently observed" can be used depending on the desired nuance and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rarely experienced

Emphasizes the infrequency of experiencing something.

seldom witnessed

Highlights the rarity of observing something happening.

infrequently observed

Focuses on the lack of regular observation.

uncommonly met

Highlights the unusual nature of encountering something.

scarcely found

Underscores the difficulty in locating or finding something.

hardly ever seen

Stresses the limited visibility or appearance.

unfrequently faced

Emphasizes the lack of usual confrontation.

rarely detected

Highlights the low probability of being noticed.

infrequently perceived

Focuses on the lack of typical awareness.

uncommonly perceived

Stresses the uncommon awareness or experience of something.

FAQs

How can I use "seldom encountered" in a sentence?

You can use "seldom encountered" to describe something that is rare or infrequently experienced. For example, "A politician with integrity is "seldom encountered" these days".

What are some alternatives to "seldom encountered"?

Alternatives to "seldom encountered" include "rarely seen", "infrequently observed", and "uncommonly met". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "seldom encountered" formal or informal?

"Seldom encountered" leans towards the formal side. In more casual settings, phrases like "rarely seen" or "not often found" might be more appropriate.

Which is correct, "seldom encountered" or "rarely encountered"?

Both "seldom encountered" and "rarely encountered" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Seldom" is slightly more formal and less frequently used than "rarely".