What does unconventional mean?
Unconventional describes something that departs from accepted, traditional, or expected ways of doing things. It is commonly applied to methods, approaches, designs, lifestyles, and forms of behavior: an unconventional strategy might solve a problem that conventional methods cannot, while an unconventional appearance might challenge familiar social expectations. The word can suggest creativity, originality, independence, and openness to change, but it may also imply eccentricity or deliberate disregard for accepted practice. Its meaning depends on context and should not automatically be treated as praise. In general English, unconventional contrasts with conventional, orthodox, and standard. It is especially useful when the departure from normal practice is deliberate or notable rather than merely accidental. Although unconventional can refer to unusual behavior in people, it is equally common in discussions of art, business, education, technology, politics, and everyday problem-solving.
adjectiveNot following accepted, traditional, or expected methods, styles, or practices. It can also describe people whose behavior or lifestyle departs from social conventions.
- Not conforming to accepted, traditional, or expected methods, practices, or styles.
- Departing from ordinary patterns of behavior, appearance, or social life.
"The designer developed an unconventional approach to solving the problem."
"The company is known for its unconventional business model."
"Her unconventional sense of humor made even difficult meetings enjoyable."
Unconventional puts a simple idea into practice: when the usual route stops working, take a different path.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of unconventional
The base word conventional comes through French from Latin conventionalis, meaning “of or according to an agreement,” and ultimately from conventio, an assembly or agreement. The prefixed form unconventional was formed in English by adding the negative prefix un- to conventional, reversing its sense to mean “not according to convention.”
Related word forms
How unconventional is actually used
The word is neutral to formal in most contexts, but it can carry a slightly positive connotation of creativity and independence or a negative suggestion of eccentricity or disregard for convention, depending on the subject and tone.
Easily confused with unconventional
Uncommon means unusual or infrequent, whereas unconventional specifically suggests departing from accepted methods, practices, or social expectations.