Translation guide
Describes something that is not often seen, found, or experienced; rare or unusual.
Expressing that something is rare, infrequent, or not commonly encountered.
The most common and versatile word for 'uncommon' or 'rare'. Used for things, events, or situations that are not often seen or experienced.
It's uncommon for it to snow around here.
It's uncommon for him to be late.
A slightly more formal or literary word for 'rare' or 'uncommon'. Often used in written language or to emphasize scarcity.
This disease is very uncommon.
It was treated as an uncommon case.
A common phrase meaning 'not very common' or 'not often'. Used in everyday conversation.
That's uncommon / doesn't happen often.
Earthquakes are uncommon in this area.
Emphasizes extreme rarity; 'hardly ever'. Often used with negative verb forms.
It's uncommon for her to get angry.
Describing something that stands out because it is not common or expected.
Also covers 'unusual' or 'novel'. Can be used for things that are interesting because they are not common.
That's an uncommon name, isn't it?
Means 'unusual', 'peculiar', or 'different'. Often implies something is a bit strange or out of the ordinary.
A formal or technical term meaning 'unique', 'peculiar', or 'uncommon'. Used in academic or medical contexts.
珍しい (mezurashii) is the everyday word for 'rare' or 'uncommon'. 稀 (mare) is more formal and often used in writing or to emphasize extreme rarity. In casual speech, 珍しい is preferred.
I saw an uncommon bird.
A rare bird inhabits the area.
Avoid directly translating 'uncommon' as 非一般的 (hi-ippanteki) or 普通でない (futsuu denai). While understandable, they sound unnatural. Use 珍しい or 稀 instead.
It's uncommon to see snow here.
Such talent is uncommon.
I woke up early today, which is uncommon for me.
He has uncommon hobbies.
特異な症状が見られた。
Uncommon symptoms were observed.