somewhat eccentric

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat eccentric" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is slightly unconventional or unusual in behavior or style. Example: "Her fashion sense is somewhat eccentric, often combining bright colors and mismatched patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Initially, his quest was considered somewhat eccentric.

The New York Times

As a result the writer's view is limited & somewhat eccentric.

The New Yorker

They live simply and are considered somewhat eccentric.

The New Yorker

In the given auction South opened with a somewhat eccentric one no-trump.

The New York Times

Eaten as it is, this is a tasty, if somewhat eccentric, pudding.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

General Beg, burly and soft-spoken, is viewed as somewhat eccentric.

The New York Times

By now, McEnroe understands that Agassi, like himself, is an unusual and somewhat eccentric talent.

The New York Times - Sports

My side, Pacific CC, a somewhat eccentric bunch, are defying the coming of winter to London.

The Guardian - Opinion

Smith also says that Deare was "somewhat eccentric in his ideas".

The Guardian - Books

Photograph: Carlo Ferraro/EPA A somewhat eccentric scholar has just left my room.

The Guardian - Arts

Over the years he has remained somewhat solitary, somewhat eccentric and always careful about money.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "somewhat eccentric" to describe a person, object, or idea that deviates from the norm without being extreme or bizarre. This phrase is suitable when you want to convey a sense of mild uniqueness or unconventionality without negative connotations.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat eccentric" when describing something truly bizarre or outrageous. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the eccentricity is noticeable but not extreme. If the subject's behavior or characteristics are highly unusual, consider using stronger terms such as "highly eccentric" or "unconventional."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat eccentric" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically used to describe nouns (people, objects, ideas) that possess qualities of eccentricity to a moderate degree. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "somewhat eccentric" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something or someone that deviates from the norm in a mild way. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is generally considered correct and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedic, and scientific writing. The phrase serves to characterize and qualify subjects without overstating their unusualness. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the degree of eccentricity aligns with the modifier "somewhat"; for truly bizarre or outrageous subjects, stronger terms may be more suitable. Alternative expressions include "slightly unconventional" or "a bit quirky", offering nuanced options for conveying the intended degree of eccentricity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly unconventional

Emphasizes a mild departure from accepted norms or practices.

a bit quirky

Suggests an endearing and harmless oddness.

mildly peculiar

Highlights a gentle strangeness or unusualness.

rather unusual

Focuses on the atypical nature of something, without strong negative connotations.

somewhat odd

Directly points out the strangeness, but in a softened way.

slightly offbeat

Indicates a divergence from the mainstream, often in an appealing way.

moderately unconventional

Highlights a moderate degree of nonconformity.

a little strange

Simply denotes something that is a bit out of the ordinary.

somewhat whimsical

Suggests a playful and fanciful eccentricity.

a tad eccentric

Uses "tad" to minimize or soften the degree of eccentricity.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat eccentric" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat eccentric" to describe someone or something that is slightly unusual or unconventional. For example, "His fashion sense is "somewhat eccentric", often combining bright colors and mismatched patterns."

What can I say instead of "somewhat eccentric"?

Alternatives include phrases like "slightly unconventional", "a bit quirky", or "mildly peculiar", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "somewhat eccentric" or "a little eccentric"?

Both "somewhat eccentric" and "a little eccentric" are correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often depends on personal preference and the specific context.

What's the difference between "eccentric" and "somewhat eccentric"?

"Eccentric" describes someone or something that deviates significantly from the norm. "Somewhat eccentric" indicates a milder degree of deviation, suggesting that the person or thing is unusual but not extremely so.