out of character
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Yun Sun, director of the China program of the Washington-based Stimson Center, said China's reticence was out of character and suspected Iran may have strategically tried to emphasize Beijing's power of persuasion.
From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026
It’s his money, but I believe he may be depleting his retirement account, which is very out of character for him.
From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026
A defence lawyer said the offences were "wholly out of character" with Wilson's family and working record.
From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025
Some El Niños have been out of character for California, too.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2025
Hamid Uncle clears his throat loudly and doesn’t acknowledge us, which is very out of character.
From "Amina's Voice" by Hena Khan
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
