though uncommon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "though uncommon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or exception, often to highlight something that is rare or not frequently encountered. Example: "The phenomenon occurs in certain species, though uncommon, and can have significant effects on their behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

In other cases, the grapes, though uncommon, have already gained a following.

The New York Times - Food

With improvement in surgical techniques and implant designs, the survival rate of prosthesis has increased significantly but unfortunately, prosthetic infections though uncommon continue to be a threatening complication.

Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma

Though uncommon, nonsparkling prosecco is an intriguing wine that retains the inimitable character of the glera grape, as the prosecco grape is now called, and the unique terroir it comes from.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Bell quit his job and moved down to a fishing shack on a stream with no electricity in Gettysburg, a part of one of the largest fruit-processing regions on the East Coast, where outhouses, though uncommon, are still in use.

The New York Times

Necrotizing pneumonia and pulmonary abscesses, though uncommon, are associated with very high mortality [34].

Insights into Imaging

Moreover, it is a well recognized though uncommon component of the Ramsay-Hunt syndrome [8].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Mr. Orth followed this with Chopin's complete 24 Preludes, another formidable, though not uncommon, undertaking.

The New York Times - Arts

A third work, Strauss's "Elektra," though not uncommon, is well down the operatic hit parade.

The New York Times - Arts

He also shares his advice on avoiding a serious, though relatively uncommon, side effect of anti-androgens.

Harvard University

Marriages between white men and black women, though still uncommon, rose from 27,000 in 1980 to 122,000 in 1995.

The New York Times - Magazine

Though not uncommon, freshwater bryozoans are inconspicuous in pools, lakes, or gently flowing rivers, especially in slightly alkaline water.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "though uncommon", ensure that the main clause clearly states the more common or expected scenario. This helps to establish a clear contrast and avoid confusing the reader. For example: "The practice is generally safe; "though uncommon", complications can arise."

Common error

Avoid using "though uncommon" to downplay a potentially serious risk or consequence. While it acknowledges the rarity, it shouldn't diminish the importance of preparing for or addressing the possibility. Instead, use it to provide context while still emphasizing the need for caution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "though uncommon" functions as an adverbial conjunction, modifying a main clause by introducing a contrasting or qualifying element. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that what follows is an exception or infrequent occurrence compared to the general statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "though uncommon" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to introduce a contrasting element or exception to a general statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correctly used in various contexts to acknowledge the infrequency of something while still recognizing its possibility. The phrase is most prevalent in scientific and news-related content, demonstrating its neutrality and suitability for factual reporting. When using "though uncommon", ensure clarity by clearly stating the more common scenario and avoiding its use to downplay potentially serious risks. Consider alternatives like "although infrequent" or "even if rare" for subtle variations in meaning. Overall, "though uncommon" is a useful tool for providing context and nuance in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

although infrequent

Emphasizes the low frequency of occurrence.

even if rare

Highlights the rarity while still acknowledging the possibility.

while unusual

Focuses on the deviation from the norm.

not typically

Suggests that something is not the standard or expected occurrence.

albeit scarce

Uses a more formal tone to indicate limited availability or occurrence.

however infrequent

Highlights the lack of frequency despite any potential expectation.

not in general practice

Indicates something is not standard procedure or widely adopted.

rarely seen

Emphasizes the visual or observable infrequency.

less often

Simply indicates a lower frequency compared to something else.

on occasion

Suggests the event or item happens only sporadically.

FAQs

How can I use "though uncommon" in a sentence?

Use "though uncommon" to introduce an exception or a less frequent occurrence to a general statement. For example, "Side effects are usually mild, "though uncommon", serious reactions can occur."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "though uncommon"?

Alternatives to "though uncommon" include "although infrequent", "even if rare", and "while unusual". Each emphasizes the rarity or infrequency of something.

Is it always appropriate to use "though uncommon"?

While grammatically correct, ensure that using "though uncommon" doesn't minimize the significance of what follows. If the rare occurrence has serious implications, consider a stronger phrasing to emphasize the importance of awareness or prevention.

What's the difference between "though uncommon" and "though rare"?

"Though uncommon" implies something doesn't happen often, while "though rare" suggests it's exceptionally infrequent. The choice depends on the specific degree of infrequency you want to convey. They can often be used interchangeably, but "rare" suggests a stronger deviation from the norm.