Fantastic vs Strange: When To Use Each One In Writing?

When it comes to describing something that’s out of the ordinary, people often use the words “fantastic” and “strange.” But which one is the proper word to use? The truth is, both words can be appropriate depending on the context.

Generally speaking, “fantastic” means something that’s imaginative, wonderful, or extraordinary. It can be used to describe something that’s great in a positive way, or something that’s unbelievable or incredible. On the other hand, “strange” means something that’s unusual, odd, or unfamiliar. It can be used to describe something that’s weird or creepy, or something that’s simply different from what we’re used to.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between fantastic and strange, and when it’s appropriate to use each word. We’ll also look at some examples of how these words are used in everyday language, and provide some tips for using them effectively in your writing.

Define Fantastic

Fantastic is an adjective that describes something that is extraordinary, imaginative, or fanciful. It is often used to describe things that are beyond the realm of reality or the ordinary, such as mythical creatures, magical powers, or fantastical worlds. The term fantastic is often associated with positive connotations, as it evokes a sense of wonder, excitement, and possibility.

Define Strange

Strange is an adjective that describes something that is unusual, unfamiliar, or odd. It is often used to describe things that deviate from the norm or are unexpected, such as bizarre behavior, peculiar objects, or eerie settings. The term strange can have both positive and negative connotations, depending on the context in which it is used. It can evoke a sense of curiosity, intrigue, or even fear.

Here is a table to compare and contrast the definitions of fantastic and strange:

Term	Definition	Connotation
Fantastic	Extraordinary, imaginative, or fanciful	Positive
Strange	Unusual, unfamiliar, or odd	Neutral to negative

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence can make a huge difference in how the message is conveyed. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words fantastic and strange in a sentence.

How To Use Fantastic In A Sentence

The word fantastic is often used to describe something that is extremely good or impressive. Here are some examples:

• The concert was fantastic.
• She did a fantastic job on the project.
• The view from the top of the mountain was fantastic.

It is important to note that fantastic can also be used to describe something that is imaginary or unrealistic. For example:

• The book was a fantastic adventure through a magical world.
• The movie had fantastic special effects that brought the alien world to life.

When using fantastic in a sentence, it is important to consider the context and ensure that it accurately conveys the intended meaning.

How To Use Strange In A Sentence

The word strange is often used to describe something that is unusual or unfamiliar. Here are some examples:

• There was a strange noise coming from the basement.
• He had a strange accent that I couldn’t quite place.
• The painting was strange, with distorted shapes and colors.

Strange can also be used to describe something that is unsettling or creepy. For example:

• There was a strange feeling in the air, as if something was watching us.
• The old house had a strange atmosphere, like it was haunted.

When using strange in a sentence, it is important to consider the tone and context of the sentence to ensure that it accurately conveys the intended meaning.

More Examples Of Fantastic & Strange Used In Sentences

In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “fantastic” and “strange” can be used in sentences. These examples will help you understand the context of these words and how they can be used in different situations.

Examples Of Using Fantastic In A Sentence

• The view from the top of the mountain was absolutely fantastic.
• She did a fantastic job on her presentation.
• The new restaurant has fantastic food and service.
• The fireworks display was fantastic.
• He has a fantastic sense of humor.
• That was a fantastic goal by the striker.
• The concert was fantastic, I had a great time.
• The hotel room had a fantastic view of the ocean.
• She has a fantastic memory and never forgets anything.
• The party was fantastic, everyone had a great time.

Examples Of Using Strange In A Sentence

• There was a strange noise coming from the basement.
• He had a strange look on his face when he saw the painting.
• The strange plant was unlike anything I had ever seen before.
• She had a strange dream last night that she couldn’t explain.
• It was strange to see the city so empty on a weekday.
• The strange smell coming from the kitchen was concerning.
• He had a strange feeling that he was being watched.
• There was something strange about the way she was acting.
• The strange markings on the wall were a mystery.
• It was strange how quickly the weather changed.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using adjectives to describe something, it’s important to choose the right word for the job. Two words that are often used interchangeably are “fantastic” and “strange.” However, using these words in the wrong context can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Fantastic” To Describe Something Unusual Or Bizarre

While “fantastic” can be used to describe something that is great or wonderful, it should not be used to describe something that is unusual or bizarre. For example, saying “That’s fantastic!” when someone tells you a strange story can be confusing for the listener. Instead, use words like “unusual” or “bizarre” to accurately describe the situation.

Using “Strange” To Describe Something Great Or Wonderful

Similarly, “strange” should not be used to describe something that is great or wonderful. While it can be used to describe something that is unusual or unfamiliar, using it to describe something positive can be confusing. Instead, use words like “fantastic,” “amazing,” or “wonderful” to accurately convey your meaning.

Using Both Words Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “fantastic” and “strange” interchangeably. While they may seem similar, they have very different meanings. Using them interchangeably can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Instead, take the time to choose the right word for the situation.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

• Take the time to think about the meaning of the words you are using
• Consider the context in which you are using the words
• Use a thesaurus to find alternative words if you are unsure of the best choice

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “fantastic” and “strange,” context plays a crucial role. Depending on the situation, one word may be more appropriate than the other. Let’s explore some examples of different contexts and how the choice between fantastic and strange might change.

1. Literature And Film

In the world of literature and film, the choice between fantastic and strange often depends on the genre. For example, in a fantasy novel or movie, the word “fantastic” might be used to describe magical creatures or events that are beyond the realm of possibility in the real world. On the other hand, in a horror story, the word “strange” might be used to describe eerie or unsettling occurrences that are difficult to explain.

Here are some examples:

• The fantastic world of Harry Potter, where wizards and magical creatures abound.
• The strange happenings in Stephen King’s “The Shining,” where ghosts and supernatural forces terrorize a family.

2. Everyday Life

Even in our everyday lives, the choice between fantastic and strange can depend on the situation. For instance, if someone tells you a fantastic story about their travels or experiences, they are likely describing something amazing or extraordinary. On the other hand, if someone tells you a strange story about their day, they might be describing something unusual or unexpected.

Consider these examples:

• The fantastic trip to Paris, where the food was delicious and the sights were breathtaking.
• The strange encounter with a man who claimed to be from another planet.

3. Marketing And Advertising

When it comes to marketing and advertising, the choice between fantastic and strange can have a significant impact on how a product or service is perceived. For example, if a company wants to promote a new product as innovative or cutting-edge, they might use the word “fantastic” to describe it. On the other hand, if a company wants to create a sense of curiosity or mystery around a product, they might use the word “strange.”

Here are some examples:

Fantastic	Strange
Introducing the fantastic new iPhone with revolutionary features.	Discover the strange and mysterious world of our new fragrance.
Experience the fantastic taste of our new gourmet coffee.	Explore the strange and unusual flavors of our exotic teas.

As you can see, the choice between fantastic and strange can have a significant impact on how we perceive and understand the world around us. By paying attention to context, we can use these words to create powerful and effective communication.

Exceptions To The Rules

While there are general rules for using fantastic and strange, there are exceptions to these rules. Here are some cases where the rules might not apply:

1. Contextual Usage

Contextual usage is an exception to the rules for using fantastic and strange. In some cases, the context of a sentence might require the use of strange instead of fantastic or vice versa.

For example:

• “The strange smell coming from the kitchen made me lose my appetite.” Here, strange is used to describe an unpleasant smell that is unusual or unexpected.
• “The fantastic view from the top of the mountain took my breath away.” Here, fantastic is used to describe a breathtaking view that is awe-inspiring or extraordinary.

2. Regional Differences

Regional differences can also affect the use of fantastic and strange. In some parts of the world, these words might have different connotations or be used in different ways than in other regions.

For example:

• In British English, the word fantastic can be used to mean “excellent” or “great,” while in American English, this usage is less common.
• In some parts of the world, the word strange might be used to describe something that is simply unfamiliar or different, rather than being unusual or extraordinary.

3. Personal Interpretation

Personal interpretation is another exception to the rules for using fantastic and strange. Everyone has their own interpretation of what constitutes something as fantastic or strange, and this can vary based on personal experiences and cultural background.

For example:

• Someone who has grown up in a rural area might find the idea of a skyscraper to be strange, while someone who has grown up in a city might find it to be ordinary.
• Similarly, someone who is a fan of science fiction might find the idea of time travel to be fantastic, while someone who is not interested in this genre might find it to be strange.

Overall, while there are general rules for using fantastic and strange, it is important to recognize that there are exceptions to these rules. By understanding these exceptions and using these words in the appropriate context, writers can effectively convey their intended meaning and create engaging content.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of fantastic and strange can be challenging, but with practice exercises, it can become second nature. Here are some exercises to help you hone your skills:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Fill in the blank with either fantastic or strange:

1. The ___________ creature had a unicorn horn and dragon wings.
2. The ___________ smell coming from the kitchen made my stomach turn.
3. It was a ___________ coincidence that we ran into each other at the airport.
4. The ___________ painting was unlike anything I had ever seen before.

Answer Key:

1. fantastic
2. strange
3. strange
4. fantastic

Exercise 2: Identify The Word

Identify whether the bolded word in each sentence is fantastic or strange:

1. It was a fantastic concert.
2. The strange man walked into the store.
3. She had a fantastic idea for the project.
4. The movie had a strange plot twist.

Answer Key:

1. fantastic
2. strange
3. fantastic
4. strange

Exercise 3: Sentence Writing

Write a sentence using either fantastic or strange in the correct context:

Answer Key:

1. The fireworks display was absolutely fantastic.
2. It was strange to see a cat walking on its hind legs.
3. She had a fantastic time on her vacation to Hawaii.
4. The strange noise coming from the basement made me nervous.

By practicing with these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of fantastic and strange in your writing and speech.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of language is a fascinating and complex subject that requires a deep understanding of grammar and syntax. Throughout this article, we have explored the differences between fantastic and strange and how these words can be used to convey different meanings and emotions.

One key takeaway is that language is not always straightforward and can be used in subtle ways to influence the reader or listener. By understanding the nuances of language use, we can become more effective communicators and better understand the messages that others are trying to convey.

Another important point is that grammar rules are not set in stone and can vary depending on the context and purpose of the communication. While it is important to follow standard grammar rules in formal writing, there is also room for creativity and experimentation in language use.

Encouraging Continued Learning

If you are interested in improving your language skills, there are many resources available to help you. Consider taking a grammar course or reading books on language and communication. You can also practice writing and speaking in different styles to develop your own voice and improve your ability to convey your ideas clearly and effectively.

Remember, language is a powerful tool that can be used to inspire, persuade, and connect with others. By continuing to learn and grow in your language skills, you can become a more effective communicator and make a positive impact on the world around you.