unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn 

: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected

an unforeseen delay

unforeseen consequences

Synonyms

• 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

Enthusiasm kicks off the journey until communication struggles and unforeseen delays take over. —Usa Today, USA Today, 18 Oct. 2025

This places the Dodgers as the top option for Tucker, barring any unforeseen circumstances. —Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025

Eva has been taking care of her with the help of nurse Védís, but when Halldór visits, the household balance is disrupted with unforeseen consequences. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2025

In the 1990s, the internet boom created overnight fortunes along with unforeseen challenges for some tech geeks and impresarios who founded wildly successful dot-coms. —Christina Binkley, Robb Report, 11 Oct. 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