unconventional methods

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unconventional methods" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to approaches or techniques that are not typical or traditional in a particular field or context. Example: "The researchers decided to employ unconventional methods to solve the complex problem, hoping for innovative results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Finding a place also can require unconventional methods.

The New York Times

Thomas said Tuesday that he would seek unconventional methods of improving the Knicks.

The New York Times - Sports

Faced with so many restrictions, Omanis have sometimes resorted to unconventional methods for expressing their views.

The Guardian - Opinion

And America's conventional strength will encourage him to use other, unconventional methods.

The Economist

She uses unconventional methods that often upset her more conservative colleague Dr Neal Hudson (Spooks alum Raza Jaffrey).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

After all, there is hardly a shortage of crime dramas with quirky male leads and unconventional methods.

Independent

But an unexpected visitor forces Rollins to take drastic action — and Internal Affairs to investigate the team's unconventional methods.

The New York Times - Arts

Casting about for ways to raise cash during the crisis, the Latvian government grasped at times at unconventional methods.

The New York Times

Gurria was speaking after the OECD had urged the ECB to take more unconventional methods to end the eurozone recession (see 10.56am).

The Guardian - Business

But his unconventional methods were also vital in another extraordinary case that neither DNA testing nor any other modern forensic technique could have helped him solve.

The Guardian - Books

"This conference has been formulated to help them get a grip on expenses and discover alternative, and sometimes unconventional, methods to better manage and enhance their properties".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing methods that are not commonly accepted or understood, provide clear explanations or examples to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "unconventional methods" as a catch-all phrase. Be specific about the methods you're referring to for clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unconventional methods" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "unconventional" modifies the noun "methods". Ludwig AI shows this phrase being used to describe approaches that deviate from standard practices. It describes a way of doing something that is not ordinary or typical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unconventional methods" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term to describe non-standard approaches or techniques. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. To ensure clarity, it's recommended to provide specific details about the methods rather than using it as a generic term. Alternatives such as "nontraditional approaches" or "alternative techniques" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Whether discussing business strategies, scientific research, or creative problem-solving, understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives will enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nontraditional approaches

Emphasizes a departure from established customs or norms.

alternative techniques

Focuses on the use of different methods to achieve a specific goal.

innovative strategies

Highlights the element of novelty and ingenuity in the methods employed.

unorthodox procedures

Stresses the deviation from standard or accepted protocols.

creative solutions

Underscores the use of imagination and originality to address a problem.

uncommon practices

Points to the rarity and infrequency of the methods being used.

experimental tactics

Suggests that the methods are still being tested and refined.

novel schemes

Implies the introduction of completely new and original approaches.

irregular ways

Highlights methods that do not conform to established rules or patterns.

unique avenues

Indicates that the methods are distinct and unparalleled in their approach.

FAQs

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

Use "unconventional methods" to describe approaches that deviate from the norm. For example: "The company used "unconventional methods" to boost sales".

What are some alternatives to "unconventional methods"?

Alternatives include "nontraditional approaches", "alternative techniques", or "innovative strategies" depending on the specific context.

Is it always positive to use "unconventional methods"?

Not necessarily. The term itself is neutral; whether it's positive or negative depends on the outcome and ethical considerations. Always consider the context.

What's the difference between "unconventional methods" and "experimental methods"?

"Unconventional methods" are simply not standard, while "experimental methods" imply that the methods are still being tested and may not be proven. "Experimental methods" suggest a higher degree of uncertainty.