Translation guide
This English phrase describes something unusual, exceptional, or not typical. In Japanese, the best expression depends on whether you mean 'unusual/rare', 'extraordinary/remarkable', or 'out of the norm'. The most common and versatile option is 普通じゃない (not ordinary).
Something out of the ordinary happened.
To say that something is not what you usually see or experience; it's different from the norm.
A very common and natural way to say 'not ordinary' or 'unusual'. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
Something out of the ordinary happened today.
His talent is something out of the ordinary.
Means 'rare' or 'uncommon'. Often used for things you don't see often, like a rare animal or an unusual event.
It's something out of the ordinary for snow to fall this early.
Literally 'different from usual'. Used when something deviates from the normal routine or pattern.
I tried taking a route that was something out of the ordinary today.
To emphasize that something is exceptionally good, impressive, or beyond normal standards.
Means 'extraordinary' or 'outstanding'. Often used to describe exceptional ability, effort, or quality.
He succeeded through something out of the ordinary effort.
Literally 'off the scale', meaning something is extraordinary in scale or degree. Stronger and more emphatic than 並外れた.
To indicate that something is not normal, possibly in a negative or concerning way.
Means 'abnormal' or 'unusual' and often carries a negative connotation, like something is wrong or out of order.
Can sound alarming or clinical. Use with care in casual conversation.
The machine is making a sound that is something out of the ordinary.
Means 'unprecedented' or 'exceptional case'. Often used in formal contexts like business or news.
普通じゃない is the most neutral and versatile. 珍しい emphasizes rarity and is often positive. 異常 implies abnormality and can be negative. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.
That project requires something out of the ordinary funding.
今回は異例の措置が取られた。
Something out of the ordinary measures were taken this time.