Synonyms of unexpected

unexpected

adjective

ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

as in sudden

not expected

the failure of the backup generator was unexpected and a contingency for which we weren't prepared

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sudden
• unanticipated
• unforeseen
• abrupt
• unlooked-for
• unlikely
• unplanned
• improbable
• surprising
• startling
• unintended

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• anticipated
• expected
• foreseen
• predicted
• unsurprising
• prophesied

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unexpected

And, this example points out what pet insurance really excels at — covering big, unexpected expenses. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 10 Nov. 2026

The steepest fertility declines have occurred in unexpected countries. — Jesús Fernández-Villaverde, Foreign Affairs, 10 Nov. 2026

Plaid, wool blankets are unexpected and can make a beautiful table. — Kaitlyn Keegan, Hartford Courant, 10 Nov. 2026

Lawyers in the Civil Division were taken by surprise by the abrupt and unexpected nature of Shumate's resignation, which was effective immediately, sources told CBS News. — Sarah N. Lynch, CBS News, 9 Nov. 2026