unique
gb/junˈik/ us/junˈik/
B1
English
~ 2100
Senses
0 senses
adjective
B1
property
1
One of a kind
Only one like it; not like anything else.
Usage pattern:
[something] is unique
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes use 'very unique', but 'unique' already means 'the only one', so intensifiers like 'very' are often considered unnecessary, though common in casual speech.
Synonyms
one-of-a-kind (More informal, emphasizes rarity and specialness.)
Antonyms
common (Describes something that exists in many examples, not rare.)
Collocations
truly unique
|unique opportunity
|unique experience
|unique design
|unique situation
Themes
descriptions
|creativity
|identity
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- This necklace is unique because it was handmade by my grandmother.
- His style of painting is truly unique in the art world.
- The museum offers a unique collection of ancient coins.
- Each snowflake is unique in its shape.
- She had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome.
Learner examples
- This bag is unique. There is no other like it.
- Her voice is unique and beautiful.
- That shop sells unique clothes.
- The park has a unique view of the city.
adjective
B1
property
2
Unusually special or distinctive
Special and different from others in a good way.
Usage pattern:
[someone/something] is unique for/in [something]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse this meaning with the strict 'only one' sense; here it can mean just 'special'. Context determines which meaning applies.
Synonyms
distinctive (Highlights a noticeable difference that makes someone or something stand out.)
Antonyms
ordinary (Lacking special qualities; common or normal.)
Collocations
unique perspective
|unique talent
|unique feature
Themes
descriptions
|appreciation
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The restaurant is unique for its combination of flavors.
- He has a unique sense of humor that not everyone understands.
- Her approach to teaching is unique and very effective.
Learner examples
- She has a unique way of telling stories.
- This phone has a unique design.
- He offers a unique idea for the project.
Grammar
Dictionary form
unique
IPA
GB/junˈik/
US/junˈik/
Syllables & stress
unique (1 syllable)
Word forms
Adjective
- Base: unique
Word family
Core family
uniquely
adverb B2
uniqueness
noun
Negative and opposite forms
non-unique
adjective
Expressions
in a unique position
1/ˈɪn ə junˈik pəzˈɪʃən/
fixed phrase
Having a special advantage
To have an advantage or chance that no one else has.
Examples
- As mayor, she is in a unique position to help small businesses.
- We are in a unique position to influence the decision.
make someone feel unique
1/mˈeɪk sˈʌmwˌʌn fˈil junˈik/
fixed phrase
Cause someone to feel special
To do something that makes a person feel important and different from others.
Examples
- Her kind words made him feel unique and appreciated.
- Teachers should try to make each student feel unique.