Synonyms for

Sudden

Verb / ˈsʌdʌn / Another word for sudden — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

happening or done quickly and unexpectedly; abrupt

Synonyms & similar words

gradual abrupt unexpected surprising unforeseen abruptly immediate quick swift instant expeditious precipitous unanticipated unannounced unexpectedly unpredictable impetuous precipitate rash hasty violent

Synonyms by register

Formal

abrupt unexpected unforeseen precipitate

Informal

out of the blue all of a sudden like a bolt from the blue

Literary

swift quick hasty

Antonyms

gradual slow expected planned anticipated deliberate measured

Common collocations

  • sudden death
  • sudden impact
  • sudden change
  • sudden movement
  • sudden illness
  • sudden stop
  • sudden realization

Word family

noun suddenness
adverb suddenly

Usage note

While 'sudden' often implies something happening without warning, it can also describe something that happens quickly. Be mindful of the context to convey the intended meaning.

Example sentences

  1. The sudden noise scared the cat.
  2. The sudden gust of wind blew my hat off.
  3. The sudden change in weather ruined our picnic plans.
  4. The sudden loss of power caused the computer to shut down.
  5. The sudden appearance of the clown made the children laugh.

Quotes

  • “Life is like a sudden gust of wind. It can push you in any direction.” - Lailah Gifty Akita
  • “Truth is ever to be found in simplicity, and not in the multiplicity and confusion of things.” - Isaac Newton
  • “You never know what's around the corner. It could be everything. Or it could be nothing. You keep putting one foot in front of the other, and then one day you look back and you've climbed a mountain.” - Tom Hiddleston

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