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 Or the goal may be clinching a big add-on acquisition, or satisfying an unforeseen surge in sales by constructing new plants. Shawn Tully, Fortune, 1 Nov. 2025 In a Friday memo, the USDA argued that the funding can only be utilized in the aftermath of unforeseen events, such as natural disasters. Max Rego, The Hill, 29 Oct. 2025 Many equine businesses ultimately agree with the county’s intent of preserving agricultural lands, but fear the unforeseen consequences that could put their livelihoods — and community — at risk. Grace Hase, Mercury News, 29 Oct. 2025 Open next summer Weiss said the hope is to reopen for the summer 2026 season with no interruption, barring any unforeseen construction delays or discovery of deeper issues with the pool deck. Elliot Mann, Twin Cities, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unforeseen
Adjective
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Excluding disasters, sudden surges of this magnitude in requests for food or any other need are rare at 211s, and can signal both public worry and need, as happened in the first weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Matthew W. Kreuter, CNN Money, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • However, this approach defeats the primary purpose of insurance, which is to protect against catastrophic costs in the event of an unexpected medical crisis.
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Her bond with Simone Biles has been well documented, but Chiles lights up when talking about other unexpected connections that also keep her grounded.
    Essence, Essence, 6 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unforeseen. Accessed 16 Nov. 2025.

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