Translation guide
The English word 'unusual' describes something that is not common, ordinary, or expected. In Japanese, the best translation depends on whether you are talking about something rare, strange, remarkable, or simply different from the norm. This guide covers the most natural ways to express these nuances.
Describing something that is rare, infrequent, or not typical.
The most common and versatile word for 'unusual' in the sense of rare or uncommon. It can be used for events, objects, or situations.
This is an unusual flower, isn't it?
It's unusual for him to be late.
Means 'rare' and is slightly more formal or literary than 珍しい. Often used in written language or formal speech.
This is an unusual case.
Literally 'not ordinary'. A straightforward way to say something is not normal or typical. Can sound a bit direct.
His behavior is unusual.
Describing something that is odd, weird, or out of the ordinary in a way that attracts attention.
Means 'strange' or 'peculiar'. Often used for things that are different from the norm in an interesting or quirky way. Can be used for people, objects, or situations.
He has unusual hobbies.
This store has a lot of unusual products.
Means 'strange' or 'odd', often with a nuance of being mysterious or eerie. Slightly more formal than 変わった.
I heard an unusual sound.
A very common casual word for 'strange' or 'weird'. Can be used in many contexts but is informal.
Unusual weather, isn't it?
Describing something that stands out because it is extraordinary, impressive, or unusually good/bad.
Means 'unprecedented' or 'exceptional'. Often used in formal contexts like news or business to describe an unusual event or decision.
Unusual measures were taken.
Means 'extraordinary' or 'out of the ordinary'. Used for exceptional abilities, efforts, or qualities.
He has unusual talent.
Means 'unique' or 'peculiar', often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe something distinct or anomalous.
Unusual symptoms are observed.
Describing a situation or behavior that deviates from the norm or from what is expected.
Literally 'different from usual'. A very natural way to say something is not as it normally is. Commonly used in daily conversation.
Today I took an unusual route.
He seems unusual today.
Similar to いつもと違う, meaning 'different from usual'. 普段 refers to ordinary or everyday state.
I want to do something unusual.
珍しい (mezurashii) emphasizes rarity or infrequency, while 変わった (kawatta) emphasizes strangeness or peculiarity. For example, a rare species of bird is 珍しい, but a bird that acts strangely is 変わった.
This bird is unusual (rare).
This bird has an unusual (strange) cry.
While 普通じゃない (futsuu janai) can mean 'unusual', it can sound blunt or negative, implying something is abnormal or wrong. Use 珍しい or 変わった for neutral descriptions.