unconventional

Everyday

Different from the usual or normal way of doing things; unusual and often new or surprising. tree →

In the lessons

Describes people, ideas, clothes and methods. In maths, an unconventional method may still be right if it gives the correct answer and you can explain it. In stories, an unconventional hero does things in odd ways. Phrases: «an unconventional approach», «unconventional ideas».

Examples

• Our art teacher has an unconventional way of teaching: we paint with sticks. tree →
• She solved the puzzle in an unconventional way, but it worked. tree →
• The house had an unconventional round shape. tree →
• His unconventional clothes made everyone look twice. tree →
• The coach tried an unconventional plan and the team won. tree →
• Using a ruler as a bookmark is unconventional but handy. tree →

Note

Takes «an». Not the same as wrong: unconventional only means not the usual way. Opposite: conventional, traditional.