unlike usual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unlike usual" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare something that is taking place currently to something that usually happens. For example: "I'm not going to the beach this weekend, unlike usual."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Unlike usual approaches using nonlinear equations, the model uses a linear objective function and linear constraints, binary and continuous variables.

Electric Power Systems Research

Unlike usual drugs, nanoparticle systems are planned to deliver therapeutic agents especially to inflamed synovium, so avoiding systemic and unpleasant effects.

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy

Unlike usual metal graphene metal devices, the photocurrent is generated in the middle of the graphene channel, not confined to the vicinity of the metal electrodes.

Carbon

Unlike usual existing models for this kind of structure, the excitation is also assumed to be colored, in a low-frequency range compared to that of the structural system, but not necessarily as an integer autoregressive filter.

Probabilistic Engineering Mechanics

Unlike usual dynamic observers, this technique does not require a copy of the system neither any information about the inputs, hence it is able to work even in the presence of persistent disturbances and uncertain parameters.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Unlike usual defense bill votes, most of those in opposition -- 131 out of the 146 -- were Republicans objecting strenuously to inclusion of what they referred to as "thought crimes" legislation in a defense bill.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Unlike the usual aircraft airfoils, helicopter rotor airfoils are usually symmetrical.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unlike most usual cover mechanisms, the conceived one provides a roto-translational motion.

Acta Astronautica

Unlike the usual assumption, the normal velocity is assumed to be discontinuous across the thin body.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Unlike the usual Cajun popcorn, this version consisted of whole small shrimp, not snippets.

The New York Times

Unlike the usual club party, this yoga rave started at 7 p.m.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unlike usual" to clearly indicate a departure from expected behavior or norms, enhancing clarity and adding emphasis to the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "unlike usual" in every instance of deviation; vary your language with synonyms to maintain a natural and engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unlike usual" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating contrast or exception. It introduces a situation or behavior that deviates from what is typical or expected. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unlike usual" is a versatile phrase used to highlight deviations from expected norms, suitable across various registers. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically sound. It's commonly found in scientific and news contexts, signaling contrast. For variety, alternatives such as "different from the norm" can be employed. When utilizing this phrase, aim for clarity and avoid overuse to maintain an engaging writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in contrast to the typical

Directly compares and emphasizes the difference from a common pattern.

different from the norm

Highlights the departure from what is considered typical or standard.

differently than normal

Highlights variation relative to the typical condition or state.

contrary to custom

Emphasizes the divergence from established practices or traditions.

deviating from the standard

Focuses on the act of straying away from a defined benchmark.

in an unconventional manner

Emphasizes the unorthodox way in which something is done.

distinct from convention

Suggests a clear and noticeable difference from accepted behaviors or rules.

not in accordance with habit

Highlights that something is not aligned with a usual routine or pattern.

untypically

A single-word adverb denoting that something is not done in a typical way.

outside the bounds of regularity

Implies an action or event that does not conform to what is expected.

FAQs

How can I use "unlike usual" in a sentence?

You can use "unlike usual" to highlight a deviation from the expected norm. For example, "Unlike usual, the meeting started on time today".

What are some alternatives to "unlike usual"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in contrast to the typical", "different from the norm", or "deviating from the standard".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "unlike usual"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Starting a sentence with "unlike usual" serves as an introductory phrase that sets the stage for a comparison or contrast.

What's the difference between "unlike usual" and "unlike the usual"?

While both phrases indicate a deviation from what's expected, "unlike usual" is more concise. "Unlike the usual" often implies a specific instance or item being compared.