unusual role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unusual role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or function that is not typical or expected in a given context. Example: "She was offered an unusual role in the production, one that required her to step outside her comfort zone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Occasionally in an unusual role.

The New York Times - Sports

It's an unusual role for Morgan to write for Sheen.

The Guardian - Film

There is no doubt that Davis's unusual role in the anti-L.R.A. campaign has been decisive.

The New Yorker

It's a Twentythree23 game, which means an unusual role for Cook, Bell and Trott.

The Guardian - Sport

The trustees also want to diminish Lincoln's unusual role in guiding the museum.

The New York Times

Tim Duncan, playing the unusual role of second fiddle, had 24 points and 7 rebounds.

The New York Times - Sports

The trial puts mighty Goldman Sachs in the unusual role of victim.

The New York Times

It was an unusual role for a congressman representing an unworldly East Texas district.

The New York Times

But their unusual role suggests an inherent tension in their work.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's no doubt that this is an unusual role, as it's so tied up with the history of London.

The Guardian - Money

That unusual role made him an ideal agent of the pope's larger goal of Jewish-Christian reconciliation.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person taking on a task outside their normal duties, use the phrase "unusual role" to emphasize the contrast with their typical responsibilities. For example: "The CEO took on the "unusual role" of customer support representative for the day."

Common error

Avoid using "unusual role" to describe something that is merely difficult or challenging. The phrase implies the role itself is unexpected or atypical, not just hard to fulfill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unusual role" functions as a noun phrase, where "unusual" modifies the noun "role". It describes a position or function that is not typical or expected. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unusual role" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a position or function that deviates from the norm. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its widespread usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. Alternatives include "atypical role" or "unconventional role", each with slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects an atypical situation and not just a difficult task.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

atypical role

Focuses on the deviation from the typical or expected characteristics of the role.

unconventional role

Emphasizes the lack of adherence to established conventions or norms.

unexpected role

Highlights the element of surprise or lack of anticipation associated with the role.

singular role

Underscores the role's uniqueness and lack of direct parallels.

distinctive role

Highlights the characteristic that makes the role easily distinguishable.

unique role

Focuses on the unparalleled nature of the role, indicating it has no equivalent.

special role

Emphasizes the importance or significance attached to the specific role.

anomalous role

Highlights how the role deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

out-of-the-ordinary role

Stresses that the role is not typical or commonplace.

unaccustomed role

Highlights the unfamiliarity or lack of prior experience associated with the role.

FAQs

How can I use "unusual role" in a sentence?

Use "unusual role" to describe a situation where someone is acting outside of their normal duties or expected responsibilities. For instance, "The accountant played an "unusual role" as the company's spokesperson during the crisis".

What are some alternatives to saying "unusual role"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "atypical role", "unconventional role", or "unexpected role".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "unusual role"?

The phrase "unusual role" is suitable when describing someone or something taking on a function or position that deviates from the norm or expectation. It emphasizes the element of surprise or atypicality.

What's the difference between "unusual role" and "unique role"?

"Unusual role" implies something is not typical, while "unique role" suggests something is one-of-a-kind. An unusual role might be a temporary deviation, whereas a unique role is inherently distinct.