idiosyncratic
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “idiosyncratic” mean?
adjective.relating to idiosyncrasy; peculiar or individual.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in passages discussing character traits, artistic styles, or innovative ideas. It emphasizes uniqueness or deviation from the norm, suggesting that the subject possesses distinctive qualities that set them apart from others, unlike words like "eccentric," which may imply oddness without the same focus on individuality.
Common Confusions
Idiosyncratic implies a unique and individual characteristic that distinguishes someone or something, while eccentric usually suggests a quirky or unconventional behavior that may not necessarily emphasize personal uniqueness.
Do not choose idiosyncratic if the context emphasizes commonality or conformity rather than peculiarity or individuality.
Example Sentences
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The chef's idiosyncratic cooking style won a loyal following.