exotic

Everyday

1. Exotic means coming from or belonging to a faraway country, especially a hot one, and seeming unusual and exciting. tree →
2. Exotic can mean very unusual and colourful, not ordinary. tree →
3. (science) An exotic species is a plant or animal brought into a place where it does not naturally live. tree →

In the lessons

In geography and food lessons, exotic fruits (mango, papaya, dragon fruit) and exotic animals are compared with local ones. In science and nature, exotic or invasive species, like rabbits in Australia or grey squirrels in Britain, can harm native wildlife. Be careful: calling people «exotic» can sound unkind, as if they are strange. Phrases: «exotic fruit», «exotic pets», «exotic places».

Examples

• We tried exotic fruits like lychees and passion fruit. tree →
• Parrots are exotic birds from warm countries. tree →
• The holiday brochure showed exotic beaches. tree →
• Keeping exotic pets like snakes needs special care. tree →
• Rabbits were an exotic species in Australia and spread everywhere. tree →
• Her costume was bright and exotic. tree →

Note

Opposites: native, local, ordinary. «Exotic» depends on where you are: a kangaroo is exotic in Ireland but ordinary in Australia. Avoid using it to describe people.