this is strange

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is strange" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express confusion or surprise about a situation or observation that seems unusual or unexpected. Example: "I found a note on my desk that I didn't write. This is strange."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

This is strange.

The New York Times

All of this is strange to me.

The New Yorker

"Well, this is strange," he said.

The New Yorker

"I thought, This is strange," Thomas remembered.

The New Yorker

This is strange, no?' Maybe.

The Guardian - Arts

This is strange, because no one has died.

The New York Times

You may think this is strange but I'm relieved.

Independent

All of this is strange to non-Americans.

Independent

This is strange, but I know what I can offer".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Well, all right, this is strange-sounding stuff.

The New York Times - Magazine

From that first word, it is said, we get "Maundy".This is strange, though.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is strange" to express mild surprise or confusion when encountering something unexpected or unusual. It's a versatile phrase suitable for both casual and semi-formal contexts. However, avoid overusing it, opting for more specific adjectives if the situation warrants a stronger or more precise description.

Common error

While versatile, "this is strange" can become repetitive if used excessively. To avoid this, vary your expressions. Consider using synonyms like "this is peculiar", "this is unusual", or more descriptive adjectives to convey the specific nuance of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is strange" functions primarily as an exclamatory statement expressing surprise, confusion, or recognition of something being unusual. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, from personal anecdotes to news reports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Arts

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Sport

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is strange" is a common and versatile expression used to convey surprise, confusion, or recognition of something being unusual. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently across various sources, especially in News & Media. While suitable for most contexts, it is advisable to vary your expressions and use more specific adjectives for more precise descriptions. Overall, it's a useful phrase to indicate that something deviates from the norm and merits attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is peculiar

Focuses on the odd or unusual nature of something, suggesting it deviates from the norm in a noticeable way.

this is unusual

Emphasizes that something is not typical or common, highlighting its rarity.

this is odd

Highlights the deviation from what is expected or ordinary in a simpler, more direct manner.

this is curious

Suggests that something is interesting and prompts further investigation or thought due to its strangeness.

this is remarkable

Emphasizes the noteworthy nature of something, indicating it is deserving of attention due to its strangeness.

this is unexpected

Highlights the surprise element, suggesting that something did not occur as predicted or anticipated.

this is baffling

Focuses on the perplexing nature of something, implying it is difficult to understand or explain.

this is mystifying

Suggests that something is enigmatic and difficult to comprehend, adding a layer of mystery.

this is perplexing

Indicates confusion or uncertainty about something, emphasizing its puzzling quality.

this is disconcerting

Focuses on the unsettling nature of something, suggesting it causes unease or anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "this is strange" in a sentence?

You can use "this is strange" to express surprise or confusion about something unexpected. For example, "I received a package I didn't order; "this is strange"."

What can I say instead of "this is strange"?

You can use alternatives like "this is unusual", "this is odd", or "this is peculiar" depending on the context.

Is "this is strange" formal or informal?

"This is strange" is generally considered neutral in formality. It's suitable for most everyday conversations but might be too casual for highly formal writing. In such cases, consider alternatives like "this is peculiar".

What's the difference between "this is strange" and "this is suspicious"?

"This is strange" expresses surprise or confusion at something unusual. "This is suspicious", on the other hand, implies a feeling of distrust or belief that something is wrong or dishonest. The former is a reaction to the unexpected, while the latter suggests a potential problem or deception.