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

Every day, operators navigate heavy traffic, keep to tight schedules, and handle the unexpected—all while ensuring riders get to work, school, appointments, and home safely. —Phan Khang, Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2026

Among the unexpected housemates is Ezra Keats (Apa), the college crush Livia never quite recovered from. —Todd Spangler, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026

Guests experienced the unexpected pairing of CHEETOS FLAMIN’ HOT and dill pickle through product sampling, custom cocktails, fan-favorite arcade games, karaoke battles, and a high-energy dancefloor soundtracked by Loud Luxury’s signature mashups. —Billboard Staff, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2026

Protect delicate seedlings from the unexpected cold snaps with old towels, Wang recommends. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 16 Mar. 2026

Rhymes for the unexpected

• interconnected
• affected
• bisected
• collected
• connected
• corrected
• defected
• deflected
• dejected
• detected
• directed
• dissected