variation from the usual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "variation from the usual" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that deviates from what is typically expected or standard. Example: "The artist's latest work is a variation from the usual style, showcasing a more abstract approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A handful of other countries, including India, Afghanistan and Iran, have 30-minute variations from the usual hourly difference from GMT. Nepal's is 15 minutes.

The Guardian

In a pleasant variation on the usual crumbs-garlic-herb mixture, the stuffing for artichoke included crumbled sausage, and excellent marechiara sauce added even more richness.

The New York Times

That was a variation on the usual theme of a winning rider's rocking his arms to signal that he is honoring a newborn child.

The New York Times - Sports

We examined the effect of variation in the usual pattern of BPb peaking at approximately 2 years of age.

Environmental Health Perspectives

The signature, a set of variations in the usual DNA sequence, is carried on the Y chromosome, which is bequeathed unchanged from father to son.

The New York Times

The players continue to look like footballers anywhere, just with slight Nordic variations on the usual hairdos and coloured boots.

The Guardian - Sport

In almost every group, however, variations of the usual reproductive process occur.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Brenton adds a few signature variations on the usual themes of miserable-marriage plays, a distinguished genre that can be traced back through Strindberg to Shakespeare.

The New York Times

His more popular positions – and his more abhorrent ones – are just minor variations on the usual programme, homophobic window-dressing for the neoliberal consensus.

Vice

Variations to the usual toppings are just fine.

WikiHow

To make your date more interesting, ask variations on the usual questions.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "variation from the usual" to highlight a deliberate change or modification. This emphasizes that the deviation is not accidental but a conscious alteration from the standard.

Common error

Avoid using "variation from the usual" when you simply mean something is different or unique without implying it was once standard. Ensure there's a clear baseline of what's considered "usual" for the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "variation from the usual" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used as an adjective to describe a noun. It modifies the noun by indicating that it is different or deviates from what is considered standard or typical. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "variation from the usual" is a prepositional phrase used to describe something that differs from the standard or typical. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, it's important to ensure a clear understanding of what constitutes the "usual" in any given context. Alternatives include phrases like "departure from the norm" or "deviation from the standard". The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various writing styles, but its effectiveness lies in highlighting a deliberate or significant difference from the norm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departure from the norm

Focuses on deviating from what is considered standard or typical.

deviation from the standard

Highlights a divergence from an established benchmark or expectation.

departure from convention

Emphasizes a move away from accepted customs or practices.

shift from the ordinary

Implies a change from the commonplace to something more distinctive.

alteration to the routine

Suggests a change in a customary or regular sequence of actions.

divergence from the expected

Highlights a difference from what is anticipated or predicted.

change from the typical

Indicates a move away from what is considered representative or average.

novel approach

Emphasizes the introduction of a new or innovative method.

unconventional method

Focuses on a method that does not conform to usual practices.

atypical instance

Denotes an occurrence that is not representative of its kind.

FAQs

How can I use "variation from the usual" in a sentence?

You can use "variation from the usual" to describe something that differs from the typical or expected pattern. For example, "The artist's latest exhibition presents a striking "departure from the norm"".

What are some alternatives to saying "variation from the usual"?

Alternatives include "departure from the norm", "deviation from the standard", or "departure from convention", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "variation of the usual" or "variation from the usual"?

"Variation from the usual" is generally preferred when indicating a deviation or difference from a standard or typical pattern. "Variation of the usual" is less common but could be used in specific contexts where 'of' implies belonging to or being a type of the usual.

What is the difference between "variation from the usual" and "exception to the rule"?

"Variation from the usual" implies a modification or alteration of something standard, while "exception to the rule" suggests a situation that doesn't conform to a general principle. They are similar, but "exception to the rule" often carries a stronger sense of breaking a formal guideline.