Words / B1

yoo-NEEK/juˈniːk/

Unique means the only one of its kind. A unique opportunity; unique to this region. Special is weaker and more emotional; rare means not common but not necessarily one of a kind. Strict teachers say “very unique” is illogical; exams still accept unique as “very unusual.” Uniquely is the adverb. A unique selling point (USP) is business English.

Meaning

The only one of its kind; very special.

Examples

• “Each learner has a unique voice.”
• “This design is unique to our workshop.”
• “Each fingerprint is unique.”

Good to know

unique to + place / group. Weaker: special. Not common: rare. Adverb: uniquely.

Near in meaning

distinctive

New