unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn How to pronounce unforeseen (audio)
: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected
an unforeseen delay
unforeseen consequences

Examples of unforeseen in a Sentence

there are almost always unforeseen consequences for any major endeavor unforeseen problems delayed the project beyond its deadline
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Second, could de-extinction technologies be misunderstood or have unforeseen consequences for (less than omniscient) human beings? JSTOR Daily, 13 Nov. 2025 Trump’s actions, those foreseen and those unforeseen, are creating immense opportunities for change. Peter D. Feaver, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2025 Others were forced into senior housing earlier than planned due to unforeseen health problems. Sydney Franklin, Cincinnati Enquirer, 9 Nov. 2025 Barring any unforeseen changes, the awards in the dance categories will be presented during the Grammys Premiere Ceremony that happens earlier in the day. Katie Bain, Billboard, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unforeseen was in 1651

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unforeseen. Accessed 16 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unforeseen

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!