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.
In human time, if history means the irreversible and unforeseen, then the species Felis catus hardly belongs to history. Lewis Hyde, Harpers Magazine, 18 June 2025 Even then, unforeseen consequences can emerge decades later — no less than in Iran itself. Alexander Smith, NBC news, 18 June 2025 But be warned, heavy sits the crown, and most of your decisions will have unforeseen consequences down the line, many of which lead to your untimely demise. Simon Hill, Wired News, 13 June 2025 The disaster, which unfolded in clear weather conditions, raises significant questions about the aircraft's configuration, the airline's procedures, and the potential for unforeseen failure modes in one of the world's most advanced commercial jets. Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 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 5 Jul. 2025.

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