strange wording

USAGE SUMMARY

'strange wording' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to language that is unfamiliar or odd and may not be grammatically correct. For example, "I heard some strange wording coming from the old man's mouth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The mobilization of the Confederate Army, we also read, involved the participation of "tens of thousands of African-American laborers" both "enslaved and free"; this is a strange wording implying broad black support, minimizing any hint of coercion and ignoring, too, the fact that nearly four million people — one-third of the South's population — were then enslaved.

The New York Times - Arts

Was there strange wording in the goodwill agreement that may have confused owners?

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The strange word: unleavened.

The New Yorker

It seems a strange word to use.

Independent

Celebrity is a strange word.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's a strange word.

The Guardian

Deployed was a strange word — a strange sound.

The New Yorker

"Military pride is a strange word," Pieken said.

The New Yorker

Micro- and nano are no longer strange words in today's technology.

Bioinspired Materials for Medical Applications

People are playing with language and sharing strange words.

The Guardian

Big words, and strange words to apply to a singer!

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "strange". If you mean 'unfamiliar', 'uncommon', or 'incorrect', choose a more precise word.

Common error

Avoid using "strange wording" as a vague criticism. Instead of simply stating that the wording is strange, explain why it is confusing, misleading, or inappropriate. For example, instead of saying 'The contract had some strange wording', specify 'The contract used ambiguous terms that could be interpreted in multiple ways'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strange wording" typically functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun (like 'contract', 'document', 'speech') to indicate that the specific word choice or phrasing is unusual or peculiar. Ludwig AI recognizes it as a valid English phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strange wording" is a valid English phrase used to describe language that is perceived as unusual or peculiar. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although its frequency is rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context to explain what makes the wording "strange". Alternatives like "peculiar phrasing" or "odd phrasing" can be used for nuanced expression. It serves to draw attention to flaws in word choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

peculiar phrasing

Replaces "strange" with "peculiar" to denote oddity.

odd phrasing

Substitutes "strange" with "odd", indicating something unusual or unconventional.

unusual language

Replaces "wording" with "language", broadening the scope to overall expression.

awkward phrasing

Uses "awkward" instead of "strange" to highlight the clumsy or ungainly nature of the wording.

unconventional terminology

Emphasizes the deviation from standard or accepted terms.

curious expression

Focuses on the expression itself being worthy of interest or inquiry.

bizarre language

Replaces "strange" with "bizarre" indicating something very odd and unexpected.

anomalous phrasing

Highlights the irregularity or deviation from the norm in the wording.

unorthodox language

Emphasizes the non-traditional or unconventional nature of the language used.

offbeat language

Uses "offbeat" to suggest an unconventional and slightly eccentric quality in the wording.

FAQs

What does "strange wording" mean?

"Strange wording" refers to the use of words or phrases that are unusual, peculiar, or deviate from common or standard language. It often implies that the language is confusing, awkward, or inappropriate for the context.

What can I say instead of "strange wording"?

You can use alternatives like "peculiar phrasing", "odd phrasing", or "unusual language" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I identify "strange wording" in a document?

Look for phrases that sound awkward, use unfamiliar vocabulary, or have ambiguous meanings. Consider whether the wording is appropriate for the intended audience and context. If it deviates significantly from standard usage, it might be considered "strange wording".

Is "strange wording" always incorrect?

Not necessarily. While "strange wording" can indicate grammatical errors or misuse of language, it can also refer to creative or unconventional language choices that are used intentionally for stylistic effect. However, clarity and effectiveness should always be prioritized.