Definition of unexpectednext
as in sudden
not expected the failure of the backup generator was unexpected and a contingency for which we weren't prepared

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of unexpected Another freshman receiver who could get some unexpected run this fall? Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 20 Apr. 2026 Oscar winner Sean Baker has found an unexpected way to inspire future generations of independent filmmakers — at the bank. Matt Donnelly, Variety, 20 Apr. 2026 Against the backdrop of an island honeymoon, the two men clash and bicker before gradually uncovering an unexpected bond. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 20 Apr. 2026 General manager Eric DeCosta didn’t show his cards, but did have an unexpected admission last week. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected
sudden
Adjective
  • The sudden departure comes just a day after Phelan addressed a large crowd of sailors and industry professionals at the Navy’s annual conference in Washington, and spoke with reporters about his agenda.
    Konstantin Toropin, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026
  • Now, however, a study published today in Nature is challenging this sedate view, suggesting instead that the solar system’s first solids stormed into being much faster from sudden temperature shifts in the disk’s turbulent maelstrom.
    Javier Barbuzano, Scientific American, 22 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

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