unique
15 synonyms and 2 antonyms for unique, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use unique
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Borrowed from French unique, from Latin unicus ("only, sole").
Full origin of unique →Frequently asked questions
What does “unique” mean?
The word “unique” means being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else. In plain terms, one of a kind — nothing else is quite like it.
How do you pronounce “unique”?
“Unique” is pronounced yoo-NEEK (/juːˈniːk/ in IPA).
How do you use “unique” in a sentence?
Here is “unique” used in a sentence: “Every snowflake is said to be unique.”
What is another word for “unique”?
Words with a similar meaning to “unique” include alone, azygous, incomparable, matchless, nonpareil and only.
What is the opposite of “unique”?
The opposite of “unique” — its antonyms — are common and normal.
What part of speech is “unique”?
“Unique” is an adjective.
Where does the word “unique” come from?
The word “unique” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French unique, from Latin unicus ("only, sole").
Is “unique” a common word?
“Unique” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
Can something be 'very unique'?
Strictly, no. Unique means one of a kind — an absolute state with no degrees, so something either is unique or isn't. Purists reject 'very unique' or 'quite unique' for the same reason you can't be 'very only.' In casual speech people say it for emphasis, but careful writing avoids it.
What is the difference between 'unique' and 'unusual'?
'Unusual' means rare or uncommon — there could still be others like it. 'Unique' is stronger: it means the only one of its kind, with nothing else quite like it. A purple car is unusual because most cars aren't purple; a one-off handmade car is unique because no other exists.
What is an example of something unique?
A person's fingerprints are unique — no two people share the same pattern. Other examples include a snowflake's structure, an original painting like the Mona Lisa, or your DNA. Each is the only one of its kind. The word also describes distinctive qualities, as in 'a unique voice' or 'a unique flavor.'
Is 'unique' a compliment?
Usually, yes. Calling something unique often praises it as special, original, and distinctive. But it can be neutral or even a gentle euphemism — describing an odd choice as 'unique' may politely avoid saying it's strange. Tone and context decide whether it flatters or simply marks something as one of a kind.