Out of the ordinary

adjective

Something different from what is usually experienced or expected.

The food at the restaurant was out of the ordinary, full of unique flavors and ingredients.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Something different from what is usually experienced or expected

Often appears as...

  • something is out of the ordinary
  • find out of the ordinary
adjective

Noting someone or something that stands out due to uniqueness or distinctiveness.

His painting style is out of the ordinary, making it easily recognizable.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Noting someone or something that stands out due to uniqueness or distinctiveness

Often appears as...

  • style is out of the ordinary
  • looks out of the ordinary
adjective

Referring to an event or situation that is rare or unexpected.

It was out of the ordinary for her to be late to work. She's usually very punctual.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Referring to an event or situation that is rare or unexpected

Often appears as...

  • event is out of the ordinary
  • sudden out of the ordinary
adjective

Something different from what is usually experienced or expected.

The food at the restaurant was out of the ordinary, full of unique flavors and ingredients.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Something different from what is usually experienced or expected

Often appears as...

  • something is out of the ordinary
  • find out of the ordinary
adjective

Noting someone or something that stands out due to uniqueness or distinctiveness.

His painting style is out of the ordinary, making it easily recognizable.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Noting someone or something that stands out due to uniqueness or distinctiveness

Often appears as...

  • style is out of the ordinary
  • looks out of the ordinary
adjective

Referring to an event or situation that is rare or unexpected.

It was out of the ordinary for her to be late to work. She's usually very punctual.
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary" - Referring to an event or situation that is rare or unexpected

Often appears as...

  • event is out of the ordinary
  • sudden out of the ordinary
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "out of the ordinary"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Surprise

Use when something pleasantly surprises you because it's not what's typically encountered.

Illustration for Unexpected Surprise
The magic show was out of the ordinary, leaving everyone in awe.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cultural Nuances

What's ordinary can vary by culture, so the phrase may highlight cultural differences.

Illustration for Cultural Nuances
Wearing shoes indoors is out of the ordinary in some countries.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Positive

It's not always positive; it can imply strangeness or unfamiliarity which may not be welcome.

Illustration for Not Always Positive
His approach to teaching was out of the ordinary and unsettled some students.
Visual representation of the word "Out of the ordinary"

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