American English

How to pronounce unconventional

adjectiveB2
uhnknVEHNshuhnl

/ˌən.kn̩ˈvɛn.ʃə.nl̩/

5 syllables · Stress the third syllable.

Different from what is usual, traditional, or generally accepted.

What to listen for

In natural speech, “unconventional” can sound like /ˌən.kn̩ˈvɛn.ʃə.nl̩/; the /n̩/ and /l̩/ can form very short syllables.

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

adjective

Different from what is usual, traditional, or generally accepted.

She has an unconventional approach to teaching.

His unconventional ideas helped the company succeed.

Good to know

This word is often neutral or positive. It does not necessarily mean strange or bad.

Common phrases & grammar

unconventional approach · unconventional methods · unconventional lifestyle · unconventional thinking

be unconventional

an unconventional + noun

Related words & forms