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Wordabulary

idiosyncrasy

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

A distinctive habit or way of behaving that is particular to one person.

"One of his idiosyncrasies is that he refuses to eat food that touches other food on the plate."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

quirk peculiarity

Usage notes

"Idiosyncrasy" describes a personal quirk, while "idiosyncratic" is the adjective used to describe a person or style that has many such quirks.

Test yourself

In your own words, what does "idiosyncrasy" mean?

A distinctive habit or way of behaving that is particular to one person.

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