unusually

Everyday

1. Unusually means in a way that is not usual or normal. tree →
2. Unusually also means more than usually, very: «unusually cold». tree →

In the lessons

In science and geography, «unusually hot weather», «an unusually high tide» describe things that are different from the normal pattern, which scientists notice and measure. In stories «she was unusually quiet» is a clue that something is wrong. Phrases: «unusually large», «unusually for him», «unusually early».

Examples

• It was unusually cold for May. tree →
• He was unusually quiet at dinner. tree →
• Unusually, the bus was early. tree →
• The tree grew unusually tall. tree →
• The class was unusually well behaved today. tree →
• Snow fell unusually early this year. tree →
• Unusually for her, she forgot her homework. tree →
• THE next time the little boy sought Uncle Remus out, he found the old man unusually cheerful and good-humoured. tree →

Note

From «unusual» + -ly (double l). «Unusually, …» at the start of a sentence means «this is surprising». Opposite: usually.