rare

Not often seen or happening; existing in only small numbers.

• This is a rare bird.
• Snow is rare in this region.
• We had a rare chance to visit the island.

How to use it: it is rare for someone/something to… (It is rare for this lake to freeze.); rare to find/see something (These flowers are rare to find here.)

Similar words: uncommon, scarce

Opposites: common

Common phrases: rare bird, rare occasion, rare opportunity, rare species

Meat cooked only a little, so that it is still red inside.

• I prefer my steak rare.
• She ordered rare beef with potatoes.
• Is this steak too rare for you?

Opposites: well-done

Common phrases: rare steak, rare beef, medium rare