unusual
The word "unusual" is generally neutral, but depending on the context, it can be used as a polite way to say something is strange or weird without being rude. It is commonly used with 'it' in phrases like "It is unusual that..." or "It is unusual for [someone] to..." to describe an event that does not happen often.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Victoria is in a board meeting while David is at his desk.
Victoria
Your Q3 projection is unusual. Care to explain the gap?
David
Just leveraging some synergy there. I'll touch base soon.
💡
Victoria uses 'unusual' as a cold, professional euphemism for 'incorrect' or 'suspicious,' putting David on the spot. David responds with corporate buzzwords ('leveraging synergy', 'touch base') to deflect her scrutiny, highlighting his insecurity and tendency to use jargon when cornered.
Meanings
adjective
Not habitually or commonly occurring or done; remarkable or strange.
"It is unusual for it to snow in this part of the country during April."