slightly unconventional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly unconventional" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that deviates from the norm or traditional standards in a minor way. Example: "Her approach to problem-solving is slightly unconventional, but it often leads to innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Her name is very slightly unconventional.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Someone suggested a slightly unconventional change for it.

The Guardian

To be sure, Sit Dividend Growth approaches dividend investing in a slightly unconventional way.

The New York Times

In her introduction, Radycki calls her book a "slightly unconventional monograph of a highly unconventional artist".

The New Yorker

After illustrating more than 100 books, he has developed a slightly unconventional collaborative style.

The Guardian - Arts

The four chefs, all Chinese, have developed a skillful hand with their slightly unconventional but unfailingly fresh array of ingredients.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Relationships within Ziphiidae are somewhat unconventional.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The workers in Spring Hill have also become dissatisfied with lower paychecks as Saturn sales have weakened with the small-car market, and recently the workers elected new local union leaders who have promised a slightly less unconventional approach to labor-management relations.

The New York Times

Eoin Morgan is slightly more unconventional so he can operate well with the tail-enders, whereas Bell can just go in at number five and bat.

BBC

Thus, while there are functionally quite unrelated proteins that may share the same structure (see above), it is also conceivable that a particular protein may adopt slightly different "unconventional forms", possibly induced by specific binding partners.

Histochemistry and Cell Biology

In reality, though, in recent years these reserves have stayed flat or even increased slightly as ever more unconventional sources such as tar sands and shale gas get upgraded to proven status thanks to new technologies, such as fracking, and (until recently) high fuel prices.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly unconventional" to describe something that deviates from established norms or practices in a subtle or minor way. This allows you to acknowledge a departure from the norm without implying a significant or radical change.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly unconventional" when the subject is significantly different or groundbreaking. In such cases, consider using phrases like "highly innovative" or "radically different" to better reflect the extent of the deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly unconventional" functions as an adverbial modifier followed by an adjective. It describes the degree to which something deviates from the norm or established conventions. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used to qualify the extent of unconventionality, indicating it's not a major departure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

16%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slightly unconventional" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that deviates from the norm in a minor way. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It's predominantly found in news and media contexts and serves to qualify the degree of unconventionality. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the degree of difference is accurately represented, avoiding overstatements. Consider alternatives like "somewhat unorthodox" or "mildly atypical" for nuanced expressions. Be cautious not to use it for subjects that are remarkably different or groundbreaking. Remember to use "slightly" only when the subject is not drastically different.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat unorthodox

Implies a departure from established norms, similar to 'unconventional' but with a hint of not strictly conforming to rules or beliefs.

mildly atypical

Suggests something is not typical, but only to a small extent, focusing on its divergence from the average.

a bit out of the ordinary

Indicates something is not completely ordinary, suggesting a slight deviation from the usual.

somewhat different

Highlights the aspect of being not the same as others, but only to a certain degree.

moderately unusual

Emphasizes the uncommon nature of something, but not to an extreme level.

relatively nonconformist

Suggests a tendency to not follow established norms or practices, but within reasonable bounds.

a touch eccentric

Implies a slight degree of oddness or peculiarity, often in a charming or interesting way.

a shade quirky

Highlights the peculiar or unusual qualities of something, albeit only to a small extent.

marginally offbeat

Suggests a deviation from the conventional or mainstream, though not by a significant margin.

reasonably singular

Indicates a certain uniqueness or distinctiveness, while still remaining within acceptable bounds.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly unconventional" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly unconventional" to describe something that deviates from the norm in a minor way. For example, "Her approach to problem-solving is "slightly unconventional", but effective".

What are some alternatives to "slightly unconventional"?

Alternatives include "somewhat unorthodox", "mildly atypical", or "a bit out of the ordinary", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "slightly unconventional" or "somewhat unconventional"?

Both "slightly unconventional" and "somewhat unconventional" are correct, but "slightly" suggests a smaller degree of deviation than "somewhat". Choose the word that best reflects the actual extent of the difference.

What's the difference between "slightly unconventional" and "unconventional"?

"Slightly unconventional" indicates a minor departure from the norm, while "unconventional" implies a more significant deviation. Using "slightly" softens the impact and suggests that the subject is not drastically different.