the unexpected
noun
: things that happen unexpectedly
Drivers must always be prepared to deal with the unexpected.
Examples of the unexpected in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Their meteoric success, to be sure, set Hollywood on a new course: Why not aggressively create the summer blockbuster rather than wait for the unexpected?
—
Peter Bart, Deadline, 10 July 2025
In addition, first responders train for the unexpected and run towards danger, not away from it.
—Matthew Polega, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Expect the unexpected in your day-to-day life, Capricorn.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 7 July 2025
Through a basement maze of whirring industrial equipment are mundane-looking doors that lead to the unexpected.
—Alina Hartounian, NPR, 7 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for the unexpected
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.
Peter Bart, Deadline, 10 July 2025
In addition, first responders train for the unexpected and run towards danger, not away from it.
—Matthew Polega, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Expect the unexpected in your day-to-day life, Capricorn.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 7 July 2025
Through a basement maze of whirring industrial equipment are mundane-looking doors that lead to the unexpected.
—Alina Hartounian, NPR, 7 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for the unexpected
Cite this Entry
“The unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20unexpected. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share