Thesaurus

uncommon

Q: How is the word 'uncommon' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of uncommon are infrequent , rare , scarce , and sporadic . While all these words mean "not common or abundant," uncommon suggests a frequency below normal expectation. // smallpox is now uncommon in many countries

Q: When could 'infrequent' be used to replace 'uncommon'?

In some situations, the words infrequent and uncommon are roughly equivalent. However, infrequent implies occurrence at wide intervals in space or time. // infrequent family visits

Q: When would 'rare' be a good substitute for 'uncommon'?

The words rare and uncommon are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rare suggests extreme scarcity or infrequency and often implies consequent high value. // rare first editions

Q: When is it sensible to use 'scarce' instead of 'uncommon'?

While in some cases nearly identical to uncommon , scarce implies falling short of a standard or required abundance. // jobs were scarce during the Depression

Q: In what contexts can 'sporadic' take the place of 'uncommon'?

The words sporadic and uncommon can be used in similar contexts, but sporadic implies occurrence in scattered instances or isolated outbursts. // sporadic cases of influenza

adjective

Save Word

Synonyms & Antonyms of uncommon

1 being out of the ordinary

a landscape of uncommon beauty

Synonyms for uncommon

Words Related to uncommon

Near Antonyms for uncommon

Antonyms for uncommon

2 noticeably different from what is generally found or experienced

backyard swimming pools are not an uncommon sight in that neighborhood

Synonyms for uncommon

Words Related to uncommon

Near Antonyms for uncommon

unexceptional

Antonyms for uncommon

Frequently Asked Questions About uncommon

How is the word uncommon distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of uncommon are infrequent, rare, scarce, and sporadic. While all these words mean "not common or abundant," uncommon suggests a frequency below normal expectation.

smallpox is now uncommon in many countries

When could infrequent be used to replace uncommon?

In some situations, the words infrequent and uncommon are roughly equivalent. However, infrequent implies occurrence at wide intervals in space or time.

infrequent family visits

When would rare be a good substitute for uncommon?

The words rare and uncommon are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rare suggests extreme scarcity or infrequency and often implies consequent high value.

rare first editions