unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn 

: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected

an unforeseen delay

unforeseen consequences

Synonyms

• abrupt
• sudden
• unanticipated
• unexpected
• unlooked-for

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

The next crisis may be political, reputational, social or something unforeseen. —Toby Wong, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

To be sure, the exact details of any trade deal might have unforeseen impacts on the market or the economy, especially with apparently competing priorities among members of the president’s team. —Jesse Pound, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2025

The unexpected risk: Saltwater An unforeseen threat has also started to creep into the Everglades: saltwater. —John Kominoski, The Conversation, 15 Apr. 2025

But the story of English football in the 21st century has been full of unintended consequences, unsuitable owners and unforeseen problems. —Oliver Kay, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unforeseen

• acetylene
• adenosine
• amphetamine
• anthropocene
• antipyrine
• apomorphine
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• chlorobenzene