unüblich
unusual
Something that does not correspond to the norm, habit, or what is usual; rare or uncommon.
EXAMPLE
Es ist ziemlich unüblich, im Januar im Meer zu baden.
It is quite unusual to swim in the sea in January.
unüblich
unusual
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word has a simple structure: the prefix 'un-' negates the adjective 'üblich' (usual, common). So if you understand 'üblich' (usual), you can easily work out the meaning of 'unüblich' (unusual).
EXAMPLE
In unserer Firma sind so kurze Kündigungsfristen völlig unüblich.
In our company, such short notice periods are completely unusual.
Sentence structure with 'es'
A very common construction with 'unüblich' (unusual) is the sentence structure with 'es' (it) and an infinitive clause: 'Es ist unüblich, etwas zu tun.' (It is unusual to do something.) You can use this pattern for many situations.
EXAMPLE
Es ist unüblich, dem Chef zu widersprechen.
It is unusual to contradict the boss.
Use with 'für'
If you want to say for whom or what something is unusual, use the preposition 'für' (for) followed by the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Ein solches Verhalten ist für einen Erwachsenen sehr unüblich.
Such behavior is very unusual for an adult.
Compare with
unüblich vs ungewöhnlich
unusual
Ungewöhnlich generally describes something rare or conspicuous that differs from what is expected. Unüblich places greater emphasis on something not conforming to an established custom or usual procedure. Use unüblich for rules and habits, and ungewöhnlich for any other conspicuous deviation as well.
unüblich
Es war unüblich, dass der Busfahrer die Fahrgäste an der roten Ampel aussteigen ließ.
It was unusual for the bus driver to let the passengers get off at a red light.
ungewöhnlich
Es war ungewöhnlich, dass der Bus an diesem Tag fast leer war.
It was unusual for the bus to be almost empty that day.
In real life
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