unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn 

: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected

an unforeseen delay

unforeseen consequences

Synonyms of unforeseen

• sudden
• unexpected

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

But as her lifelong dream finally becomes reality, an unforeseen challenge changes everything. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026

On Tuesday, the council voted to increase the two-year contract by $400,000 and raise its construction contingency, which covers unforeseen costs, by almost $1 million. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 19 Aug. 2026

That’s been the story of this third season, one that started with Rhaenyra storming the castle and taking the Iron Throne and then promptly saw her get picked apart by dozens of unforeseen calamities. — Brian Grubb, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026

An original $75 million set aside for unforeseen expenses in 2016 swelled to $309 million last year, and the rising cost of construction also added to the high price tag. — Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unforeseen

• acetylene
• adamantine
• adenosine
• amphetamine
• anthropocene
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• catecholamine
• chlorobenzene