unique
Definitions
Being the only one of its kind; having no equal.
独一无二的；唯一的。
Belonging to or found in only one person, place, or thing (unique to).
（unique to）……所特有的。
Remarkable or unusual (informal).
（非正式）罕见的，与众不同的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin unicus, 'one and only,' from unus (one). Unique means there is exactly one — no second example exists. That strict 'one of a kind' sense is the core; the looser everyday use ('really special') stretches it.
Root un still carries 30 more wordsWhy It Means This
Because unique already means 'the only one,' logicians treat it as an absolute: a thing either is the single instance or it is not, so strictly there are no degrees. That is why careful writers avoid 'very unique' or 'more unique' — like saying 'very only.' In casual speech people do soften it to mean 'unusual' or 'special,' and that use is common, but in formal writing the safe move is to keep unique meaning literally one of a kind.
Usage Guide
- Strict / formal: 'a unique opportunity,' 'unique in the world' — literally one of a kind; avoid 'very/more unique'
- unique to: 'a custom unique to this region' — found only here
- Informal: 'this place is so unique' — just means special/unusual (acceptable in speech, weak in formal writing)
- Pronunciation: yoo-NEEK (stress on the second syllable)
Example Sentences
- 1.
Each snowflake has a unique shape.
- 2.
This is a unique chance to study abroad for free.
- 3.
The accent is unique to that small island.
- 4.
Her writing style is genuinely unique.
Easily Confused
unique vs special vs rare — unique = exactly one of its kind (no second exists). special = better or more important than usual (a special guest). rare = few exist, but not necessarily only one (a rare bird). A rare coin may not be unique; a unique coin is the only one.