Synonyms for

Unexpected

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

Definition

Not expected or anticipated.

Synonyms & similar words

expected surprising unforeseen unplanned sudden astonishing shocking startling abrupt unannounced unpredicted unforeseeable unanticipated unlooked-for unheralded unimagined unthinkable inconceivable extraordinary unusual

Synonyms by register

Formal

unforeseen unanticipated surprising startling

Informal

out of the blue sudden shocking a bolt from the blue

Literary

abrupt unheralded sudden

Antonyms

expected foreseen anticipated predictable usual common routine

Common collocations

  • unexpected guest
  • unexpected turn of events
  • unexpectedly fast
  • unexpectedly large
  • unexpectedly difficult
  • unexpectedly good
  • unexpected discovery

Word family

noun unexpectedness
adverb unexpectedly

Usage note

While 'unexpected' can be used in most contexts, be mindful of its intensity. For very surprising events, 'shocking' or 'startling' might be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. The unexpected arrival of the guests caused chaos in the house.
  2. The unexpected snowstorm closed the schools for a week.
  3. The unexpected news of her promotion made her day.
  4. The unexpected power outage disrupted the concert.
  5. The unexpected sight of the rainbow brightened her mood.

Quotes

  • Life is full of surprises and and serendipity. Being open to unexpected turns in the road is an important part of success. If you try to plan every step, you may miss those wonderful twists and turns. Just find your next adventure-do it well, enjoy it-and then, not now, think about what comes next.
  • In the end, the unexpected moments of happiness are the ones that make life worth living.
  • The best things in life are unexpected-because there were no expectations.

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