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
Due to the unexpected medical fees and her inability to work in schools because of her diagnosis, her friend created a GoFundMe to help raise money for her treatment.
—
Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
Viewers have taken to the comments section to voice their amusement at the unexpected sight.
—Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Sep. 2025
When does the unexpected become so regular it is expected?
—Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2025
Their hopes for an intimate gathering, however, are dashed with the unexpected arrival of Karl’s estranged mother, Vibeke, who is intent on rejoining the family and proving herself as a grandmother.
—Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 24 Sep. 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.
Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
Viewers have taken to the comments section to voice their amusement at the unexpected sight.
—Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Sep. 2025
When does the unexpected become so regular it is expected?
—Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2025
Their hopes for an intimate gathering, however, are dashed with the unexpected arrival of Karl’s estranged mother, Vibeke, who is intent on rejoining the family and proving herself as a grandmother.
—Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 24 Sep. 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 4 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share