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Peculiarity - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Peculiarity refers to a distinctive or unusual feature that makes something or someone stand out. It often describes quirks, oddities, or unique characteristics that are not commonly found.

peculiarity

/pɪˌkjuliˈærəti/ /pɪˌkjuːliˈærəti/

Definition:

A distinctive or unusual feature or characteristic.

Synonyms:

quirk, oddity, idiosyncrasy, eccentricity

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

normality, conformity

Common Collocations:

personal peculiarity, cultural peculiarity, slight peculiarity, charming peculiarity

Derivatives:

peculiar, peculiarly

Usage Tips:

Use "peculiarity" to describe unique traits, often neutral or slightly odd but not necessarily negative.

Common Phrases:

a peculiarity of nature, a charming peculiarity, a local peculiarity

Etymology:

From Latin "peculiaris," meaning "private property" or "special," later evolving to mean "distinctive."

Examples:

  • 1. Her peculiarity was her habit of humming while working.
  • 2. The town’s main peculiarity is its annual cheese-rolling festival.
  • 3. His speech had a slight peculiarity that made it memorable.
  • 4. Each culture has its own peculiarities that visitors find fascinating.

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