What is seldom Meaning and Definition
What is seldom
Pronunciation
/ˈwɒt ɪz ˈsɛlm/
Part of Speech
Noun phrase
Definition
A phenomenon or situation that occurs infrequently or uncommonly, often referring to unexpected or unusual events or circumstances.
Examples
- The company rarely experiences a sudden downturn in sales, but this quarter was an exception.
- It is what is seldom seen on the radar screens of astronomers, a rare astronomical event.
Synonyms
- Rarity
- Uncommonness
Antonyms
- Frequency
- Commonness
Etymology
The phrase “what is seldom” is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century, with the modern meaning emerging in the late 20th century.
Usage Notes
The phrase is often used in formal or technical contexts, particularly in fields such as astronomy, business, or medicine, where rare events or situations are studied or analyzed.
Cultural References
The phrase has been referenced in various cultural works, including films, literature, and music. For example, the 2013 film “Gravity” features a rare astronomical event that is referred to as “what is seldom” seen.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “What is seldom is wonderful” – a common idiomatic phrase suggesting that extraordinary or rare events are often remarkable.
Related Words or Phrases
- Rarity
- Uncommonness
- Exhaustive
Collocations
- ‘What is seldom’ and ‘rarely’
- ‘What is seldom’ and ‘uncommon’
Frequency of Use
The phrase “what is seldom” is relatively rare in everyday language, but it is often used in formal or technical contexts to refer to rare events or situations.
Common Misspellings
- Seldomly
- Seldome