unprecedented conditions

USAGE SUMMARY

'unprecedented conditions' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a situation that has never occurred before. For example, "The global pandemic has created unprecedented conditions not seen before in this century."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Modern art had busied itself with adapting traditional creative mediums to unprecedented conditions.

The New Yorker

Everything is hotter and drier, so we are facing unprecedented conditions in human history... due to the human-caused climate change".

The Guardian

Representative Dick Armey of Texas, the majority leader, used a floor speech to urge colleagues to support the president's plan, which he said had already resulted in "unprecedented conditions of safety".

The New York Times

He is doing this in unprecedented conditions for such a party, consciously trying to combine the "invisible hand" of the market with the "visible hand" of the party-state.

The Guardian - Opinion

Alan Hudson, the joint administrator at Ernst & Young, said: "High street retailers have faced unprecedented conditions over recent years, and the market for higher value discretionary purchases has been particularly tough".

Independent

Amid pressure from American unions and public opinion, the Clinton administration pushed Cambodia to accept unprecedented conditions: if Washington decided in an annual review that its industry was in "substantial" compliance with Cambodian labor law and international standards, it would raise Cambodia's quota by 14percentt.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

WHEN Bulgaria and Romania became members of the European Union in 2007, the European Commission imposed one unprecedented condition, usually reserved for non-EU countries wanting to join: a temporary monitoring of the reforms in the two Balkan countries that many deemed were not ready to join the bloc.

The Economist

Bell Boyd & Lloyd, a Chicago-based firm with about 260 lawyers, cut loose 10 associates, also blaming "unprecedented market conditions".

The New York Times

"I have a terrific team here at TCM, and despite these unprecedented economic conditions we are enjoying record ratings, audience delivery and web traffic.

The Guardian

"2008 was a challenging year for the group, with unprecedented economic conditions adversely affecting advertising markets in all of our divisions, particularly in the second half of the year," Montgomery said.

The Guardian

"Despite unprecedented market conditions, Morgan Stanley's core client franchise achieved solid revenue growth, profitability and return-on-equity this quarter," the chairman and chief executive, John J. Mack in a statement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unprecedented conditions", specify the context to highlight the particular area experiencing these novel circumstances. For example, "unprecedented economic conditions" or "unprecedented environmental conditions".

Common error

Avoid using "unprecedented conditions" simply for emphasis. Ensure the situation truly lacks historical precedent and provide evidence or context to support your claim. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and can make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unprecedented conditions" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "unprecedented" modifies the noun "conditions". It describes a set of circumstances that are without prior parallel or historical precedent. Ludwig shows many examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unprecedented conditions" is a commonly used phrase to describe situations that lack historical precedent. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and business. To use it effectively, provide specific context and avoid overuse. Consider alternatives like ""novel circumstances"" or ""unparalleled situations"" for nuanced meanings. Remember that while often used in a neutral register, specifying the type of conditions (e.g., economic, environmental) provides more clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

never-before-seen situations

Explicitly states that the situations have not occurred previously.

unparalleled situations

Highlights the lack of comparison or precedent for the circumstances.

unmatched circumstances

Indicates that the circumstances have no equal or comparable situation.

novel circumstances

Emphasizes the newness and unfamiliarity of the situation.

extraordinary circumstances

Stresses the unusual and remarkable nature of the situation.

exceptional circumstances

Focuses on the rarity and deviation from the norm.

unique circumstances

Highlights the distinct and singular nature of the conditions.

uncommon circumstances

Underscores the infrequency and rarity of the conditions.

unheard-of situations

Emphasizes the surprising and unexpected nature of the conditions.

uncharted territory

Metaphorically describes the unfamiliarity and lack of prior experience.

FAQs

How can I use "unprecedented conditions" in a sentence?

You can use "unprecedented conditions" to describe situations that have never occurred before. For example, "The pandemic has created "unprecedented conditions" for the global economy."

What are some alternatives to "unprecedented conditions"?

Alternatives include "novel circumstances", "unparalleled situations", or "exceptional circumstances" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "unprecedented conditions" or "unusual conditions"?

"Unprecedented conditions" emphasizes that the situation has never happened before, whereas "unusual conditions" simply means the situation is not common. The best choice depends on the accuracy of the description you're aiming for.

What's the difference between "unprecedented conditions" and "extreme conditions"?

"Unprecedented conditions" highlights the novelty of the situation, whereas "extreme conditions" focuses on the severity or intensity. While a situation can be both unprecedented and extreme, the emphasis differs.