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 On Tuesday, the council voted to increase the two-year contract by $400,000 and raise its construction contingency, which covers unforeseen costs, by almost $1 million. Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 19 Aug. 2026 That’s been the story of this third season, one that started with Rhaenyra storming the castle and taking the Iron Throne and then promptly saw her get picked apart by dozens of unforeseen calamities. Brian Grubb, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026 An original $75 million set aside for unforeseen expenses in 2016 swelled to $309 million last year, and the rising cost of construction also added to the high price tag. Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026 Szabo, through her attorney, has said that closing the business was unforeseen and unavoidable. Amber Gaudet, Charlotte Observer, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unforeseen
Adjective
  • Officials are still investigating the exact cause, though preliminary assessments suggest an ice avalanche may have blocked a river upstream in Tibet, triggering the sudden outburst flood.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The concierge can be contacted via WhatsApp, but response times can be slow during varying rush hours; for example, a sudden tropical rainstorm might inspire half the resort to call in for room service.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • This move was not entirely unexpected, as Bezos hinted at the possibility during an interview with CNBC back in May.
    , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Home insurance covers your home and belongings from unexpected events like fire, theft or natural disasters.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unforeseen. Accessed 29 Aug. 2026.

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