1 —used to say that something or someone is unlike anything or anyone else The shape of each and every snowflake is unique. His talents make him truly unique. 2 : very special or unusual a unique opportunity a unique feature/characteristic See More Examples.
Contents
- 1 What does unique really mean?
- 2 What is an example of unique?
- 3 Does Unique mean special?
- 4 Why is it a unique?
- 5 Is unique a good thing?
- 6 How can we be unique?
- 7 Why is very unique wrong?
- 8 What do you call a person who is unique?
- 9 What does Unique mean in math?
- 10 Can you say a unique?
- 11 Is quite unique grammatically correct?
- 12 Why do we say a unicorn and not an unicorn?
- 13 Why is it important to be different?
- 14 What makes a kid Unique?
- 15 What are the advantages of being unique?
- 16 How can I be a unique girl?
- 17 How can you be unique and different from others?
- 18 Can you say almost unique?
- 19 Can you say rather unique?
- 20 What kind of word is unique?
What does unique really mean?
existing as the only one or as the sole example; single; solitary in type or characteristics: a unique copy of an ancient manuscript. having no like or equal; unparalleled; incomparable: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint.
What is an example of unique?
The definition of unique is one of a kind. An example of unique is a necklace with a personalized message on the charm. Highly unusual, extraordinary, rare, etc. Being the only one of its kind.
Does Unique mean special?
As adjectives the difference between unique and special
is that unique is (not comparable) being the only one of its kind; unequaled, unparalleled or unmatched while special is distinguished by a unique or unusual quality.
Why is it a unique?
Is it “an unique” or “a unique”? Well, the word “unique” starts with a “u,” but when being pronounced, it makes a “y” sound (yoo-nique), which is a consonant. So, “a” should be used as the article. Although some people may use “an unique,” it’s grammatically incorrect!
Is unique a good thing?
Yes, it’s good to be unique and different and to stand out from the crowd for many things, like finding your personal clothing style, or making decisions on personal safety, but when it comes to using universally recognized imagery, its time to stick with the mainstream.
How can we be unique?
10 Things That Make A Person Unique
- Your Personality. An individual’s personality is something that is molded from the moment they are born right through to the present moment.
- Your Attitude.
- Your Experiences.
- Your Habits.
- Your Creativity.
- Your Perspective.
- Your Taste.
- Your Goals.
Why is very unique wrong?
Is It Wrong to Say ‘Very Unique’? Adjectives make up about 20% of English words.’Unique’ is often cited as a word that should never be modified, as its original meanings were “being the only one” and “unequaled.” But ‘unique’ has another meaning, “unusual,” and it’s common to modify the word when it’s used this way.
What do you call a person who is unique?
rara-avis. A rare or unique person or thing.
What does Unique mean in math?
Unique means that a variable, number, value, or element is one of a kind and the only one that can satisfy the conditions of a given statement.
Can you say a unique?
‘A unique‘ is correct. An is used when concerned words start with vowel sound. Unique starts with a consonant sound, ‘U’. Similarly, we can say ‘a university’.
Is quite unique grammatically correct?
2 Answers. Yes, this phrase is acceptable to native English speakers. One of the meanings of quite is to the greatest possible degree, therefore it can be used with a non-gradable adjective like unique. Other examples are quite delicious or quite amazing.
Why do we say a unicorn and not an unicorn?
If a word that starts with a vowel takes “an,” why do we say, “a unicorn?”Unicorn doesn’t follow the pattern because, when you say it, it doesn’t start with a vowel. It starts with a consonant. The sound “yu” is a consonant, so we say, “a unicorn.”
Why is it important to be different?
Being different helps you make a difference.
Your differences stand out, and the world needs them. New ideas, perspectives, and actions are required if you want to positively impact the world! Progress will never be made if you’re just like everyone else.
What makes a kid Unique?
Every child has unique character strengths and abilities that allow them to express their individuality in a social environment. It is what makes them “special.” As parents, we begin to notice differences in our children when they are quite young.
What are the advantages of being unique?
When you make it a point to start acting, thinking, and being different, you’re giving yourself permission to explore. You’re pushing the boundaries of that safe little comfort zone you’ve created for yourself and expanding your horizons. You’re giving yourself the gift of the unknown, the unusual, and the unexpected.
How can I be a unique girl?
To stand out and set yourself apart, speak your mind. Although you should always treat other people with respect, you do not have to keep your thoughts and ideas to yourself. Speak your mind in a civil, kind tone. Standing out from other girls can also be achieved by dominating male-oriented conversation.
How can you be unique and different from others?
- 6 Things to Master to Be Different From Others. Take one step ahead than the rest of the crowd.
- Believe in yourself. Start believing yourself.
- Stop taking advice from people. Stop now.
- Don’t think much. Think about the present.
- Don’t tell your next step to anyone.
- Keep learning always.
- Surround yourself with inspiring people.
Can you say almost unique?
“Unique” singles out one of a kind. That “un” at the beginning is a form of “one.” A thing is unique (the only one of its kind) or it is not. Something may be almost unique (there are very few like it), but technically nothing is “very unique,” though this expression is commonly used to mean “highly unusual.”
Can you say rather unique?
language rule” debate: Can something be “very” unique? No, it can’t. Neither can it be “somewhat” unique or “rather” unique. Unique means “one of a kind,” and you can’t modify that; it’s either unique or it’s not, just like I’m either pregnant or I’m not (I’m not).
What kind of word is unique?
Being the only one of its kind; unequaled, unparalleled or unmatched. Of a feature, such that only one holder has it.
What do you mean unique?
existing as the only one or as the sole example single solitary in type or characteristics: a unique copy of an ancient manuscript. having no like or equal unparalleled incomparable: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint.
What is an example of unique?
The definition of unique is one of a kind. An example of unique is a necklace with a personalized message on the charm. Highly unusual extraordinary rare etc. Being the only one of its kind.
What is the meaning of unique person?
To be a unique person means that you are one of a kind and no other person is exactly like you. This uniqueness partly comes from within shown through our actions and behaviors. According to the Oxford Dictionary the meaning of unique is “being the only one of its kind unlike anything else.
What is the meaning of unique sentence?
highly unusual or rare but not the single instance. 1. The machine’s unique design prevents it from overheating. 2.
Does Unique mean special?
As adjectives the difference between unique and special
is that unique is (not comparable) being the only one of its kind unequaled unparalleled or unmatched while special is distinguished by a unique or unusual quality.
See also what is the tallest mountain in africa?
Why is it a unique?
Is it “an unique” or “a unique”? Well the word “unique” starts with a “u ” but when being pronounced it makes a “y” sound (yoo-nique) which is a consonant. So “a” should be used as the article. Although some people may use “an unique ” it’s grammatically incorrect!
How can a person be unique?
A human becomes unique when they find their own strengths and capabilities. Being unique is what makes an individual different than others.So what makes a person unique? Uniqueness can come in many different ways. People can be unique based on their talent personality achievements qualities etc.
How do you explain unique to a child?
having no equal different from everything else.
How do you use the word unique?
Unique sentence example
- His paintings were so unique as to require no signature for identification. …
- Some humans are born with unique supernatural talents. …
- It wasn’t so unique to be traceable. …
- He drifted to the ground supported by Yully’s unique magic. …
- There was something unique about them.
Is unique a bad word?
Is It Wrong to Say ‘Very Unique’? Adjectives make up about 20% of English words. … ‘Unique’ is often cited as a word that should never be modified as its original meanings were “being the only one” and “unequaled.” But ‘unique’ has another meaning “unusual ” and it’s common to modify the word when it’s used this way.
Why is being unique a good thing?
The fact that an individual is unique assures him a special place and special worth in his own society. It is precisely because he is different that makes it possible for him to make contributions to the welfare of others and to develop anything that could be called a society.
What makes you unique as a person examples?
How to answer “Tell us what makes you unique” (with examples)
- “My natural ability to organize effectively makes me unique. …
- “What makes me unique is my ability to easily empathize with and relate to people. …
- “What makes me unique is my experience of four years in retail.
Unique means that a variable number value or element is one of a kind and the only one that can satisfy the conditions of a given statement.
What is another word for uniquely?
What is another word for uniquely?
| especially | specially |
|---|---|
| extremely | uncommonly |
| exceptionally | extraordinarily |
| unusually | extra |
| remarkably | awfully |
Is unique and different the same?
As adjectives the difference between unique and different
is that unique is (not comparable) being the only one of its kind unequaled unparalleled or unmatched while different is not the same exhibiting a difference.
What kind of word is unique?
Being the only one of its kind unequaled unparalleled or unmatched. Of a feature such that only one holder has it.
Can you say a unique?
Words whose first syllable has a consonant sound then take up ‘a’. an example of this is unique who first syllable is ‘yoo‘ which is not a vowel sound. Therefore it is ‘a unique’ as opposed to ‘an unique’.
What unique characteristics mean?
adj. 1 being the only one of a particular type single sole. 2 without equal or like unparalleled. 3 Informal very remarkable or unusual.
Can you say very unique?
That “un” at the beginning is a form of “one.” A thing is unique (the only one of its kind) or it is not. Something may be almost unique (there are very few like it) but technically nothing is “very unique ” though this expression is commonly used to mean “highly unusual.”
How do you explain I am unique?
How to answer “What makes you unique?”
- Mention skills listed in the job description.
- Provide examples from your background. …
- Avoid generic phrases like “I’m a hard worker”. …
- Include key personality traits that will allow you to deliver similar results in the future.
See also what was the main technique used to study the solid surface of venus?
How can I be a unique woman?
If You Find The Girl With These 26 Unique Qualities Keep Her…
- If she loves fearlessly. …
- If she’s authentic. …
- If she’s supportive. …
- If she’s funny. …
- If she challenges you. …
- If she’s driven. …
- If she can take care of herself. …
- If she’s kind.
How is every individual unique?
That is how we understand the world. … The difference experience of every individual created their own unique personality and way of understanding the world. So even though there is only one context one sentence. Every individual will have their own different interoperation due to their unmatched life experience.
What does unique child mean?
Every child is a unique child who is constantly learning and can be resilient capable confident and self-assured. Babies and young children mature in every area of development at their own pace and in their own individual ways.
Is unique good or bad?
Yes it’s good to be unique and different and to stand out from the crowd for many things like finding your personal clothing style or making decisions on personal safety but when it comes to using universally recognized imagery its time to stick with the mainstream.
Can you say quite unique?
2 Answers. Yes this phrase is acceptable to native English speakers. One of the meanings of quite is to the greatest possible degree therefore it can be used with a non-gradable adjective like unique.
Is unique an absolute?
The word unique is an absolute modifier when used in the sense of being ‘one-of-a-kind’ or ‘the one and only. ‘ Lady Gaga is very unique. Yet both the Oxford Dictionary and Merriam-Webster Dictionary include an alternative definition for unique: ‘unusual’ or ‘very remarkable.
What is your concept of being unique in your life?
B eing unique means being the way you are without influencing your attributes traits personality or basic values because of anyone.
How would you describe yourself?
Example: “I am ambitious and driven. I thrive on challenge and constantly set goals for myself so I have something to strive toward. I’m not comfortable with settling and I’m always looking for an opportunity to do better and achieve greatness. In my previous role I was promoted three times in less than two years.”
What do you think makes you a unique candidate examples?
My time in retail makes me a candidate with a unique set of skills that have been honed by face to face customer interactions. I am a thorough communicator excellent listener take direction well and excel in a team environment all skills which I know will fit well with this current administrative position.”
See also why is fidelity important
How do you answer what makes you unique in a pageant?
How to Answer “Why Should You Win This Pageant?”
- Talk About What You’ve Already Done. Do your past accomplishments make you a great candidate for the title? …
- Talk About What You Plan To Do. Do you have special plans for the title? …
- Tell Them What Sets You Apart.
What does Unique mean in physics?
To say that a function satisfying certain conditions is “unique” means that it is the only function satisfying those conditions. For example there is a unique function y(x) satisfying y”= -y y(0)= 0 y(1)= 1. (That unique function is y(x)= sin(x).)
How do you show something is unique?
Note: To prove uniqueness we can do one of the following: (i) Assume ∃x y ∈ S such that P(x) ∧ P(y) is true and show x = y. (ii) Argue by assuming that ∃x y ∈ S are distinct such that P(x) ∧ P(y) then derive a contradiction. To prove uniqueness and existence we also need to show that ∃x ∈ S such that P(x) is true.
What makes a set unique?
A set is uniquely determined by its elements. This means that the only thing that defines what a set is is what it contains. So how you choose to list or define the contents makes no difference to what the contents actually are.
What is the opposite of uniqueness?
Opposite of the state or characteristic of being different or unique as compared to others. conformity. likeness. normality. sameness.
What does UNIQUE mean? – The English Definition
Unique | Meaning of unique ? ? ?
Speak Fluent English – Learn Advanced English Words To Replace ‘UNIQUE’ – English Vocabulary Lesson
UNIQUE – Meaning and Pronunciation
END {if (nonempty) {for (i in files) print i;};} ‘`; if test — z «$ (ETAGS_ARGS) $$tags$$unique«; then:; else test — n «$$unique» | | unique = $$empty_fix; ❋ Thebeaky (2010)
Short introduction: A cryptographic hash-function is a function where you can put in any data and you’ll get a unique, fixed-size value. »unique« in this case scenario means that it’s very hard to calculate two different strings matching to the same hash value. ❋ Unknown (2010)
Kashi’s 7 Whole Grain Puffs is said to have a unique flavour derived from the sesame seeds bursting at high temperature and imparting their unique flavour to the cereal. ❋ Unknown (2008)
BE: When we first started i came up with the term unique edition. ❋ Max Eternity (2011)
And the company’s use of the term «unique visitors» is «the same as everyone,» he says. ❋ DAVID MILSTEAD (2011)
I am sure I have never before used the word unique with such exactness. ❋ Alan C. Greenberg (2010)
I suppose that the term unique in discussing the craft activity at Johnson’s Island was confusing. ❋ Unknown (1999)
My response, «But I am working, just from home,» completely baffles them and they gaze at me with an expression unique to children: «Daddy says the funniest things.» ❋ THOMAS KLASSEN (2012)
A spokeswoman said the icon had been used by the troops to identify themselves as scout snipers, a designation unique to the Marine Corps, and was never intended to have Nazi connotations. ❋ Raf Sanchez (2012)
For more than 10 years, the term unique visitors has been known as the count of unique cookies (de-duplicated over the period of analysis) to a Web site.
But he referred to the administration’s work to rush what he called «unique capabilities» to the field, an oblique reference to classified programs like the stepped-up construction of a CIA drone-launching base in the Persian Gulf region to use the unmanned aircraft to hunt militants in Yemen. ❋ Unknown (2011)
With classic L.A arrogance, owner/madman Sebastian freaked out and dumped all of Gordon’s restaurant changes and went back to what he called a «unique» menu that consisted of over 10,000 possible menu combinations you choose the meat, than the sauce on top, than the pasta/side that goes with it… ❋ Harmon Leon (2011)
Marlena Cervantes, 30, of Big Sky, Mont., is the owner of FlexPetz, which she described as a unique concept for dog lovers who are unable to own a pet, but miss spending time with a dog. ❋ Unknown (2008)
Being [one of a kind]
Someone [going left] when everyone else is going right.
Being different from [the rest].
Person 1: She’s so uniquePerson 2: She is she’s so special one of a kind ❋ Forever Someone Special (2017)
[My name is] unique, [your name] is very unique! Because [your one] of a kind ❋ Missbluberry (2015)
[Unique] people are those who have many [weird] qualities but [execute] them well ❋ Lola3 (2010)
Her [feather] [hat] was unique. ❋ Modinogoesrawr (2006)
FOLLOWER: » omg i should buy that, its [IN STYLE]!
UNIQUE: » WHY?!:S its fucking ugly
FOLLOWER: But if I don’t, I’ll be a total [lozer]!! BESIDES EVERYONE ELSE HAS IT!
UNIQUE: » *bitchslaps* YOUR SUCH A FOLLOWER. BE [YUU], BITCH!:@ ❋ Thats Rite, Imma Hater (2008)
everyone wear [hollister].she wears [volcom] [clothes] so shes unique. ❋ Preppychick21 (2009)
Kate has a well-devoloped mind and makes [straight A’s]. She is unique. Matt’s a [dimwit] who tries to bring a [pocket knife] to elemetary school. He is unique. ❋ A Person Who Won An Award In Sixth Grade For Being Unique Just Because I Dressed Differently (2006)
Girl 1: That was a very UNIQUE choice of clothing…
Girl 1 behind other girls back: That is the UGLIEST thing I have EVERRR seen!
Girl 2 [two weeks] later to Girl 1:[Wowwww] aren’t you wearing exactly what you called ugly just two weeks [agooo]? ❋ Who Cares Who I Am I Know And Thats All That Matters (2006)
Myself as a whole is unique. My [idea] of people not being unique isn’t as someone [out there] probably has had a similar thought. ❋ Jassles (2008)
I’ve been to several funerals, but [this one] was unique— there was [confetti] [in the coffin]. ❋ Kitti Papaver (2015)
1
: being the only one : sole
his unique concern was his own comfort
I can’t walk away with a unique copy. Suppose I lost it?—
Kingsley Amis
the unique factorization of a number into prime factors
2
a
: being without a like or equal : unequaled
… he could stare at the flames, each one new, violent, unique …—Robert Coover
c
: able to be distinguished from all others of its class or type : distinct sense 1
App Tracking works by Apple assigning a unique identifier to your device.—Ben Lovejoy
You will see an assortment of digital tags that let the Web site identify your computer as a unique visitor.—Peter H. Lewis
The site sees an average of 227 million unique users per month …—West Hartford (Connecticut) News: Web Edition Articles
3
: unusual
a very unique ball-point pen
… we were fairly unique, the sixty of us, in that there wasn’t one good mixer in the bunch.—J. D. Salinger
Can something be very unique or somewhat unique?: Usage Guide
Many commentators have objected to the comparison or modification (as by somewhat or very) of unique, often asserting that a thing is either unique or it is not. Objections are based chiefly on the assumption that unique has but a single absolute sense, an assumption contradicted by information readily available in a dictionary. Unique dates back to the 17th century but was little used until the end of the 18th when, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, it was reacquired from French. H. J. Todd entered it as a foreign word in his edition (1818) of Johnson’s Dictionary, characterizing it as «affected and useless.» Around the middle of the 19th century it ceased to be considered foreign and came into considerable popular use. With popular use came a broadening of application beyond the original two meanings (here numbered senses 1 and 2a). In modern use both comparison and modification are widespread and standard but are confined to the extended senses 2b and 3. When sense 1 or sense 2a is intended, unique is used without qualifying modifiers.
Synonyms
Choose the Right Synonym for unique
strange, singular, unique, peculiar, eccentric, erratic, odd, quaint, outlandish mean departing from what is ordinary, usual, or to be expected.
strange stresses unfamiliarity and may apply to the foreign, the unnatural, the unaccountable.
a journey filled with strange sights
singular suggests individuality or puzzling strangeness.
a singular feeling of impending disaster
unique implies singularity and the fact of being without a known parallel.
a career unique in the annals of science
peculiar implies a marked distinctiveness.
the peculiar status of America’s First Lady
eccentric suggests a wide divergence from the usual or normal especially in behavior.
the eccentric eating habits of preschoolers
erratic stresses a capricious and unpredictable wandering or deviating.
a friend’s suddenly erratic behavior
odd applies to a departure from the regular or expected.
quaint suggests an old-fashioned but pleasant oddness.
outlandish applies to what is uncouth, bizarre, or barbaric.
outlandish fashions of the time
Example Sentences
There are no clear blueprints to be discovered in history that can help us shape the future as we wish. Each historical event is a unique congeries of factors, people, or chronology.
—Margaret McMillan, Dangerous Games, 2008
[Tiger] Wood’s unique skill set was on display again at last week’s U.S. Open, but this victory was more visceral. It was all heart.
—Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated, 23 June 2008
Space is a strange and unique item—you can’t take it to a lab and analyze it like beef jerky.
—Bob Berman, Astronomy, November 2007
A century ago a doctor was considered to be part of a social elite. He—and medicine was then very much a masculine endeavor—had a unique mastery of a special body of knowledge. He professed a commitment to levels of competence and integrity that he expected society to respect and trust.
—Richard Horton, New York Review of Books, 31 May 2007
Most stars are not born in isolation but instead in groups of several thousand to tens of thousands, all of which emerge from the same parent cloud of gas. Each cloud has a unique and homogeneous mix of chemical elements and isotopes, which its stellar progeny inherits. Even when the stars disperse, they retain their unique chemical tag …
—Rodrigo Ibata et al., Scientific American, April 2007
As a dozen new books will testify, our nation is in the midst of a great barbecue renaissance, with each region proudly claiming its own unique style.
—Ruth Reichl, Gourmet, July 2005
She’s in the unique position of running for office against her husband.
Humans are unique among mammals in several respects.
See More
Recent Examples on the Web
This is a feeling that is, for me, unique to running.
—Alli Harvey, Anchorage Daily News, 9 Apr. 2023
Its unique blend of ingredients provides an effective clean, while being gentle on your fabrics.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 7 Apr. 2023
Book Now Advertisement — Continue Reading Below 4 Carillon Wellness Resort, Miami From cupping to cryotherapy, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offers a unique blend of Western, Eastern, and alternative medicines.
—Sean Santiago, ELLE Decor, 7 Apr. 2023
The saga began in mid-March when a hacker used flash loans—a peculiar type of ultra-short-term loan unique to DeFi—to trick Euler’s protocol into paying him nearly $200 million.
—Jeff John Roberts, Fortune Crypto, 6 Apr. 2023
Note: The sizes are unique to the brand, so pay attention to the size chart linked in the item description.
—Emilia Benton, womenshealthmag.com, 6 Apr. 2023
Homelessness and tent encampments aren’t unique to Parramore, though officials believe the neighborhood has the densest population.
—Ryan Gillespie, Orlando Sentinel, 6 Apr. 2023
Shop Now 3 DuraLife by Barrette Outdoor Living Made from a unique blend of polypropylene and hardwood composite, Barrette Outdoor Living’s DuraLife gives conventional wooden decks an innovative upgrade.
—Kelsey Mulvey, House Beautiful, 6 Apr. 2023
These figures open a window on a set of pathologies unique to America among developed countries.
—Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2023
See More
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘unique.’ Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
French, from Latin unicus, from unus one — more at one
First Known Use
1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of unique was
in 1601
Dictionary Entries Near unique
Cite this Entry
“Unique.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unique. Accessed 14 Apr. 2023.
Share
More from Merriam-Webster on unique
Last Updated:
11 Apr 2023
— Updated example sentences
Subscribe to America’s largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!
Merriam-Webster unabridged
- Top Definitions
- Quiz
- Related Content
- Examples
- British
This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.
This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.
adjective
existing as the only one or as the sole example; single; solitary in type or characteristics: a unique copy of an ancient manuscript.
having no like or equal; unparalleled; incomparable: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint.
limited in occurrence to a given class, situation, or area: a species unique to Australia.
limited to a single outcome or result; without alternative possibilities: Certain types of problems have unique solutions.
not typical; unusual: She has a very unique smile.
noun
the embodiment of unique characteristics; the only specimen of a given kind: The unique is also the improbable.
QUIZ
CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?
There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?
Which sentence is correct?
Origin of unique
First recorded in 1595–1605; from French, from Latin ūnicus, equivalent to ūn(us) “one” + -icus -ic
usage note for unique
Many authors of usage guides, editors, teachers, and others feel strongly that such “absolute” words as complete, equal, perfect, and especially unique cannot be compared because of their “meaning”: a word that denotes an absolute condition cannot be described as denoting more or less than that absolute condition. However, all such words have undergone semantic development and are used in a number of senses, some of which can be compared by words like more, very, most, absolutely, somewhat, and totally and some of which cannot.
The earliest meanings of unique when it entered English around the beginning of the 17th century were “single, sole” and “having no equal.” By the mid-19th century unique had developed a wider meaning, “not typical, unusual,” and it is in this wider sense that it is compared: The foliage on the late-blooming plants is more unique than that on the earlier varieties. The comparison of so-called absolutes in senses that are not absolute is standard in all varieties of speech and writing.
See also a1, complete, perfect.
OTHER WORDS FROM unique
u·nique·ly, adverbu·nique·ness, nounnon·u·nique, adjectivenon·u·nique·ly, adverb
Words nearby unique
uniplanar, unipod, unipolar, unipotent, unipotential, unique, uniqueness, uniramous, unironically, UNISA, uniseptate
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Words related to unique
different, exclusive, particular, rare, uncommon, exceptional, extraordinary, singular, special, strange, unparalleled, unprecedented, weird, individual, lone, one, one and only, onliest, separate, single
How to use unique in a sentence
-
TikTok keeps millions of users glued to their screens, and offers unique opportunities for brands to promote their products and go viral by using TikTok for business.
-
We asked them why they wanted to use us, and how their needs are unique.
-
Our database is filled with thousands of big brands, brands you know, websites you visit every day that are struggling with getting their unique, indexable URLs indexed by Google.
-
In March, the site had 68 million unique users, 136% more than March 2019, according to Comscore.
-
In typical Apple style, the mask looks unique with large coverings on the top and bottom for the wearer’s nose and chin.
-
Prevalence depends on context, and sometimes unique advantages outweigh the genetic costs.
-
The most exciting and thrillingly unique artist to surface in 2014.
-
Like Edgar, he remembers a unique time when American rappers came down and performed at the Primer Festival de Rap Cubano.
-
Christmas is unique in that it is a global holiday celebrated all over the world by humanity.
-
But that was probably the least unique thing about her childhood.
-
The order of meals at Lane End was somewhat peculiar even then, and would now be almost unique.
-
They are unique; that lady there is the Du Barry—a portrait worth, alone, six thousand francs.
-
It is these unique coincidences and recurrences that make it so easy to find relations between these sovereigns.
-
It is the one which is sometimes called in books on economics the case of an unique monopoly.
-
Oh that their ranks could be kept filled and that a mould so unique was being used to its fullest in forming new regulars.
British Dictionary definitions for unique
adjective
being the only one of a particular type; single; sole
without equal or like; unparalleled
informal very remarkable or unusual
maths
- leading to only one resultthe sum of two integers is unique
- having precisely one valuethe unique positive square root of 4 is 2
Derived forms of unique
uniquely, adverbuniqueness, noun
Word Origin for unique
C17: via French from Latin ūnicus unparalleled, from ūnus one
usage for unique
Unique is normally taken to describe an absolute state, i.e. one that cannot be qualified. Thus something is either unique or not unique; it cannot be rather unique or very unique. However, unique is sometimes used informally to mean very remarkable or unusual and this makes it possible to use comparatives or intensifiers with it, although many people object to this use
Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012