The phrase "was unlike" is often used to describe something that is different from what was expected or normal. There are various synonyms that can be used in place of "was unlike," such as "was different," "was distinct," "was uncharacteristic," "was atypical," or "was divergent." Each of these synonyms can convey a slightly different nuance or emphasis depending on the context in which they are used. For example, "was uncharacteristic" tends to imply that the thing being described is outside the norm or expected behavior, while "was atypical" suggests that it is an unusual occurrence. Regardless of the synonym used, they all convey that something is not conforming to the expected pattern.