UNCONVENTIONAL Synonyms: 91 Similar and Opposite Words

unconventional

adjective

ˌən-kən-ˈven(t)-sh(ə-)nəl

Definition of unconventional

as in dissident

deviating from commonly accepted beliefs or practices the Shakers acquired their name because of their unconventional practice of dancing with shaking movements during worship

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Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in modern

not bound by traditional ways or beliefs had unconventional opinions on the raising of children

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as in informal

not rigidly following established form, custom, or rules young, creative people who lead unconventional but fulfilling lifestyles

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of unconventional As unconventional as a glass slipper, this slip-on style is a beautiful mashup of a Mary Jane, a sneaker, and a ballet flat. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 17 July 2026 Despite Jimothy’s unconventional appearance, wildlife experts say Jimothy appears to be doing well. — Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026 The performances continue Bridgers’ unconventional rollout for Lost Weekend. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 16 July 2026 The former 10-year NFL safety, who most recently served as the Denver Broncos pass game coordinator, is installing a dramatically different system featuring a 3-4 front with unconventional and aggressive blitz-heavy schemes. — Mike Jones, New York Times, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unconventional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unconventional

Adjective

In 2017, Ojeda and other young dissident officers had been jailed and tortured in Venezuela.

— Sebastian Rotella, ProPublica, 10 July 2026
Three men were acquitted of murder Friday in the 2019 killing of Belfast journalist Lyra McKee, who was shot by a member of a dissident Irish Republican Army splinter group while covering a riot in Northern Ireland.

— ABC News, ABC News, 3 July 2026

Definition of dissident

Adjective

While newer schools featured modern amenities, Windsor Middle had largely remained unchanged.

— Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 14 July 2026
The old supermarket-style, functional interiors are gone, and in their place are sleek architectural details, a scattering of midcentury modern furniture and colorful LED screens broadcasting the M&S seasonal campaigns.

— Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 13 July 2026

Definition of modern

Adjective

West conducted an informal poll, asking the CFOs whether the strategy function now reports to them.

— Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 13 July 2026
These experts give presentations and workshops on topics like how to use a camera, light, composition, and storytelling, as well as provide informal coaching during the voyage.

— Kristen E. Pope, Travel + Leisure, 13 July 2026

Definition of informal

Adjective

Board member Renee Paschall cast the lone dissenting vote on the final package.

— Elizabeth Sander, San Antonio Express-News, 19 Aug. 2022
The document runs to more than a hundred and fifty pages, and for each question there are affirmative and dissenting studies, as well as some that indicate mixed results.

— The New Yorker, The New Yorker, 3 June 2022

Definition of dissenting

Adjective

Religious groups fight back In Miami, religious activism aligning with traditionally progressive movements has been emerging in recent years.

— Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026
In making the jab, Conway became one of many aldermen — most vocally Latino and progressive City Council members — who have flagged the investment firm’s ICE ties.

— Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026

Definition of progressive

Adjective

The classic straight-leg silhouette is relaxed throughout, providing ease and movement to the style, balancing the more out-there design details.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 28 June 2026
The ballerina sneaker trend is just the latest in a line of kooky shoe creations that range from wearable to wildly out-there.

— Aemilia Madden, Glamour, 18 June 2026

Definition of out-there

Adjective

But Democratic leaders fear that the insurgent candidates risk blowing winnable races for Democrats with messages considered too radical for most voters.

— ABC News, ABC News, 13 July 2026
The lightweight formula is 95% naturally derived, blending vitamin E with antioxidant-rich apricot for hydration and free-radical protection.

— Deanna Pai, Vogue, 10 July 2026