与众不同
yǔ zhòng bù tóng
Being different from others · trad. 與眾不同
Describes something or someone that is unique and stands out from the ordinary. It highlights qualities that are distinctive and not commonly found among others. This phrase often carries a positive connotation, emphasizing individuality and originality.
What does 与众不同 (yǔ zhòng bù tóng) mean?
与众不同 (yǔ zhòng bù tóng) means "being different from others" in English. Word for word, it breaks down as "not the same as the crowd."
Character by character
- 与 yǔ with, and
- 众 zhòng crowd, multitude
- 不 bù not
- 同 tóng same, alike
When to use it
Primarily used to commend qualities that are distinctive and superior, often in an artistic or intellectual context. While generally positive, it can be used neutrally to simply state a difference without judgment. It is suitable for describing individuals, works, or ideas that possess a unique flair.
Example
这位画家的风格古朴典雅,与众不同。
Zhèwèi huàjiā de fēnggé gǔpǔ diǎnyǎ, yǔ zhòng bù tóng.
This painter's style is classic and elegant, truly distinctive.
Pro tip: While it means 'different from the crowd,' it usually implies a positive distinction, highlighting uniqueness, originality, or excellence rather than merely being unusual or odd.
Related idioms
异想天开 · Wild impractical ideas一心一意 · Single-minded focus赞叹不已 · Endless admiration
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