Definition of unforeseennext
as in sudden
not expected there are almost always unforeseen consequences for any major endeavor unforeseen problems delayed the project beyond its deadline

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of unforeseen Foreign debit cards are eaten by local ATM machines frequently, so having a backup card in addition to credit cards (physical and digital) helps mitigate any unforeseen issues. Sheree M. Mitchell, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026 An unforeseen opportunity Loftin entered spring training in great shape. Kansas City Star, 30 July 2026 There also was another unforeseen road block involving a record label. Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 29 July 2026 According to a club source, granted anonymity to protect relationships, Brighton were not satisfied with the pitch facilities at the venue, due to unforeseen circumstances. Andy Naylor, New York Times, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unforeseen
Adjective
  • The sudden loss of mass means the strength of the primary star’s gravity drops suddenly, causing the secondary companion to get flung out into space at dizzying speeds.
    Phil Plait, Scientific American, 14 Aug. 2026
  • But the sudden reversal in many of its biggest stock bets, compounded by losses on the other side of its portfolio and the use of leverage, quickly turned into a liquidity crunch.
    Yun Li, CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Few inside and outside the Bernabeu doubt Mourinho will blow up at some point — most likely when his team suffer an unexpected defeat or are victims of a controversial refereeing decision.
    Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • For now, Mike and I are enjoying these unexpected bonus days.
    Kim Clark, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unforeseen. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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