珍しい

ADJ (1)

[/t͡ɕi̥n.a.ɕi/^ja-JP]

rare literal / unusual literal / extraordinary literal / uncommon literal / not typical untranslatable (The term encapsulates more than just the rarity; it often implies a deviation from the norm, which isn't captured fully by a single English equivalent.)

Synonyms 稀な formal , 珍品 common

Antonyms 普通の common , 一般的な formal

An adjective used to describe something that is rare, uncommon, or not often seen, found, or encountered. It can refer to objects, events, or experiences that are distinctive or unique due to their infrequency. Furthermore, 珍しい often implies that something is unusual or extraordinary, deviating from the typical or expected norm. This broader sense of "not typical" or "out of the ordinary" is a key nuance that isn't fully captured by a single direct English equivalent like "rare" alone.

plural
無し

この切手はとても珍しいです。 — This stamp is very rare.
彼が早く起きるのは珍しいことだ。 — It's unusual for him to wake up early.
珍しい体験ができました。 — I was able to have a unique (or rare/unusual) experience.
この湖には珍しい魚が生息している。 — Rare fish inhabit this lake.