Word: eccentric (adjective, sometimes noun)

Associations

The word "eccentric" means unusual or different from the normal way people behave or things usually are. It often describes someone or something that is a bit strange but interesting or unique.

• He has an eccentric style of dressing. (This means his clothes are unusual or different from most people.)
• The scientist was known for his eccentric ideas. (His ideas were unusual or not common.)
• She lives in an eccentric house shaped like a spaceship. (The house is very different from normal houses.) A synonym is "unusual," but "eccentric" usually has a sense of charm or personality, not just being different or rare.

Substitution

Instead of "eccentric," you can say:

• unusual (more general, no positive or negative feeling)
• quirky (more playful or fun unusual)
• odd or strange (more negative or confusing)
• unique (focus on being one of a kind, often positive) Changing the word changes the feeling: "eccentric" often sounds more friendly or interesting than "odd."

Deconstruction

• Root: "centric" means "center" or "focused on."
• Prefix: "ec-" comes from Greek "ek," meaning "out of" or "away from." So "eccentric" literally means "away from the center," which is why it means different from normal or usual behavior.

Inquiry

• Can you think of someone you know who is eccentric? What makes them different?
• How would you describe an eccentric artist or musician?
• Do you think being eccentric is good or bad? Why?