as in sudden
not expected
the failure of the backup generator was unexpected and a contingency for which we weren't prepared
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Recent Examples of unexpected
The acting work is not unexpected at this particular theater, of course, but the design goes far beyond the typical.
—
Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026
Objects that are pushed and pulled by the wind, and which add unexpected flashes of light have a better and longer track record of success.
—Joan Morris, Mercury News, 26 Jan. 2026
The technology behind the alerts emerged from an unexpected spark.
—Mayo Clinic News Network, Boston Herald, 25 Jan. 2026
Playing with unexpected textures, bold prints, and bright hues add visual interest while still keeping you snug in freezing temperatures.
—Frances Solá-Santiago, InStyle, 25 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026
Objects that are pushed and pulled by the wind, and which add unexpected flashes of light have a better and longer track record of success.
—Joan Morris, Mercury News, 26 Jan. 2026
The technology behind the alerts emerged from an unexpected spark.
—Mayo Clinic News Network, Boston Herald, 25 Jan. 2026
Playing with unexpected textures, bold prints, and bright hues add visual interest while still keeping you snug in freezing temperatures.
—Frances Solá-Santiago, InStyle, 25 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected
sudden
Adjective
-
Loose, fast, and slightly jerky steps, a sudden joy sweeping through the body like a wind.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
28 Jan. 2026
-
This design helps prevent the air from escaping during sudden movements or changes in orientation.—
Sujita Sinha,
Interesting Engineering,
28 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.
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