Concept in Definition ABC

The term we are analyzing has different uses in our language. On the one hand, we say that an event is peculiar when it has a feature other than the usual. In relation to people, those who for some reason are different from most are considered peculiar (for example, due to their appearance physical or by his personality).

In relation to objects, those that have a differentiating element or are presented with a Format unusual, they are also valued as peculiar. In short, the peculiarity of someone or something indicates their differentiating element with respect to the group to which they belong.

On the other hand, we speak of peculiarities in the plural when we refer to the characteristics that make up a reality. Thus, if we describe the social reality of a country, we mention a series of unique features such as language, gastronomy or any other aspect cultural.

The normality

If we visit an exotic country, it is very likely that many things will be striking and, therefore, peculiar. Conversely, if an inhabitant of that country visits ours, he will surely think that our way of life is full of unique aspects. Consequently, we say that something or someone is peculiar when it departs from the idea of ​​normality. The concept of normality becomes a kind of border that divides the world: within normal things do not attract attention, but outside they become peculiar.

Humans are very peculiar beings

The homo sapiens It is part of the animal kingdom. However, we are "rare", because we have very significant peculiarities. Our language and intelligence make us a unique species. We are bipedal mammals, a very rare trait (only shared by the chimpanzee and kangaroo). Unlike other animals, we are unpredictable and capable of the best and the worst. Animals have an instinct and this determines their conduct, but humans are a mystery to ourselves.

Other words with the same root

Peculiar comes from Latin, specifically from the word peculiaris. In our language there are a series of words that share the same origin. Thus, the peculiar is the part of the cattle that its owner donated as a gift to a slave in ancient Rome (peculiar also refers to the property of a slave and today this word is used in prison terminology to refer to the money handled by the prisoners). The word pecunia is equivalent to money and also has the same semantic origin.

Photos: Fotolia - Eugenio Marongiu / Massimhokuto