unkonventionell
unconventional
Not corresponding to the usual social rules, forms, or habits; in an original, unusual way.
EXAMPLE
Sie hat eine sehr unkonventionelle Art, Probleme zu lösen.
She has a very unconventional way of solving problems.
unkonventionell
unconventional
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word formation with 'un-'
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' and the adjective 'konventionell' (conventional). The prefix 'un-' expresses negation here and means 'not'. 'Unkonventionell' (unconventional) is therefore the direct opposite of 'konventionell' (conventional).
EXAMPLE
Seine Kunst war vielen Kritikern zu unkonventionell.
His art was too unconventional for many critics.
Typical collocations
'Unkonventionell' (unconventional) often describes creative or personal approaches. Typical combinations are: an unconventional method, an unconventional solution, an unconventional lifestyle, or unconventional ideas.
EXAMPLE
Mit ihrer unkonventionellen Methode konnte sie das Problem schnell lösen.
With her unconventional method, she was able to solve the problem quickly.
Register and style
The word 'unkonventionell' (unconventional) belongs more to elevated or educated language. It is often used in discussions about art, science, lifestyles, or innovative ideas.
EXAMPLE
Der Architekt ist für seine unkonventionellen Entwürfe bekannt.
The architect is known for his unconventional designs.
Compare with
unkonventionell vs ungewöhnlich
unusual
Ungewöhnlich mainly describes an idea or action that differs from what is familiar. Unkonventionell additionally emphasizes that it deliberately does not follow established social forms or habits. Use ungewöhnlich for something that is simply new or unusual, and unkonventionell for a deliberate departure from such forms.
unkonventionell
Die unkonventionelle Einladung forderte die Gäste auf, in Arbeitskleidung zu erscheinen.
The unconventional invitation asked the guests to come wearing work clothes.
ungewöhnlich
Die ungewöhnliche Einladung kam als handgeschriebener Brief mit der Post.
The unusual invitation arrived by mail as a handwritten letter.
In real life
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