Use 'strange' to describe anything that falls outside of your normal experience or expectations.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Refers to something unusual or difficult to explain.
- Used to describe people, places, or events that feel unfamiliar.
- Often implies a slight sense of surprise or unease.
Overview
The word 'strange' is a versatile adjective used to describe anything that deviates from the ordinary. It carries a sense of surprise or slight unease because the subject does not fit into our existing patterns of reality or experience. Usage Patterns: It is commonly used as a predicate adjective (e.g., 'That noise was strange') or as an attributive adjective before a noun (e.g., 'I saw a strange man'). It can also be modified by adverbs like 'very,' 'really,' or 'slightly' to indicate the degree of deviation from the norm. Common Contexts: You will frequently hear this word when discussing mysterious occurrences, unexpected personality traits, or unfamiliar environments. It is a staple in both casual conversation and narrative storytelling to build curiosity. Similar Words comparison: While 'strange' is general, synonyms like 'weird' imply a more unsettling or eccentric quality, and 'odd' suggests something is slightly out of place or peculiar. 'Peculiar' often conveys a more specific, perhaps intellectual or distinctive type of strangeness compared to the broader, more common usage of 'strange.'
Examples
It is strange that he hasn't called yet.
everydayIt is unusual that he hasn't called yet.
The witness reported seeing a strange object in the sky.
formalThe witness reported seeing an unidentified object in the sky.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
strange to say
remarkably or surprisingly
Often Confused With
A 'stranger' is a noun referring to a person you do not know. 'Strange' is an adjective describing a quality.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral in register and can be used in almost any setting. It is one of the most common adjectives for expressing surprise. Avoid overusing it; synonyms like 'bizarre' or 'curious' can add variety to your writing.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 'strange' (adjective) with 'stranger' (noun). Remember that you feel 'strange' (adjective), but you meet a 'stranger' (noun). Also, avoid using 'strangely' as an adjective; it is an adverb.
Tips
Use adverbs to vary intensity
You can add adverbs like 'quite,' 'rather,' or 'very' before 'strange' to adjust how unusual you find the situation.
Avoid using it to insult others
Calling a stranger 'strange' to their face can be considered rude. Use softer alternatives like 'unusual' if you want to be polite.
Strange vs. Weird in pop culture
In modern English, 'weird' has become a more popular, slightly more informal synonym for 'strange' in casual social media interactions.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old French 'estrange,' which comes from the Latin 'extraneus,' meaning 'external' or 'foreign.' It originally referred to things coming from outside one's own group or territory.
Cultural Context
The concept of 'strange' is subjective and varies by culture. What is considered strange in one country might be perfectly normal in another, making it a culturally relative term.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'strange' creature that you have never seen before. Because it is new to you, it feels strange.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNot necessarily. While it can imply unease, it is often used neutrally to describe something simply as different or unexpected.
Yes, but be careful. Calling someone 'strange' can sound like a criticism of their behavior, so it is often better to use 'eccentric' or 'unique' in polite company.
'Foreign' specifically relates to something from another country or culture. 'Strange' refers to anything unfamiliar, regardless of its origin.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
I had a very ___ dream about flying last night.
We need an adjective to describe the noun 'dream'.
🎉 Score: /1
Summary
Use 'strange' to describe anything that falls outside of your normal experience or expectations.
- Refers to something unusual or difficult to explain.
- Used to describe people, places, or events that feel unfamiliar.
- Often implies a slight sense of surprise or unease.
Use adverbs to vary intensity
You can add adverbs like 'quite,' 'rather,' or 'very' before 'strange' to adjust how unusual you find the situation.
Avoid using it to insult others
Calling a stranger 'strange' to their face can be considered rude. Use softer alternatives like 'unusual' if you want to be polite.
Strange vs. Weird in pop culture
In modern English, 'weird' has become a more popular, slightly more informal synonym for 'strange' in casual social media interactions.
Examples
2 of 2It is strange that he hasn't called yet.
It is unusual that he hasn't called yet.
The witness reported seeing a strange object in the sky.
The witness reported seeing an unidentified object in the sky.
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