uncharacteristic
uncharacteristic — adjective
- uncharacteristicpositive
- more uncharacteristiccomparative
- most uncharacteristicsuperlative
1. happening or done in a way that does not match the usual character or habits of
happening or done in a way that does not match the usual character or habits of a person, group, or thing — for instance, a quiet evening from a friend who normally talks a lot, or a generous offer from someone known to be careful with money.
Mei-Lin's uncharacteristic silence at dinner made her friends worry that something was wrong.
uncharacteristic + [abstract noun]: silence, warmth, anger
It was uncharacteristic of Dr. Adebayo to raise his voice — he was known for staying calm under pressure.
pattern: it is uncharacteristic of [person] to [verb]
The uncharacteristic warmth of the October morning drew people outside without their jackets.
Nalini showed uncharacteristic patience with the slow internet connection, just sipping her tea and waiting.
The uncharacteristic lack of energy in the team's second-half performance surprised their coach.
- atypical
more formal; focuses on statistical or categorical difference rather than personal habit
- unusual
broader and more common; does not specifically contrast with someone's known character
- out of character
a phrase that emphasises mismatch with someone's personality rather than with general expectations
- characteristic
the direct opposite; describes behaviour that matches the usual nature of someone or something
- typical
more common in everyday use; describes behaviour or qualities that are expected
文法句型
be uncharacteristic of + noun/noun phrase
it is uncharacteristic of + person + to-infinitive
用法筆記
Frequently used before an abstract noun (silence, warmth, generosity, rudeness) or in the pattern 'it is uncharacteristic of someone to do something'. The adverb form 'uncharacteristically' is common: 'He was uncharacteristically quiet.'