unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn How to pronounce unforeseen (audio)
Synonyms of unforeseen
: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected
an unforeseen delay
unforeseen consequences

Synonyms of unforeseen

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Examples of unforeseen in a Sentence

there are almost always unforeseen consequences for any major endeavor unforeseen problems delayed the project beyond its deadline
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Butler said that, barring any unforeseen issues, the agency will own the house within the next two months. — Noah Daly august 27, Idaho Statesman, 27 Aug. 2026 And there is a reasonable likelihood that two of them will end up playing each other on Arthur Ashe either for history, or for the chance to make it, which will lead to unforeseen levels of patriotic tension. — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 Zhang sjust launched a GoFundMe to help defray the unforeseen expenses. — Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026 And barring something unforeseen, the Dolphins will give him the chance to replicate an exceptional 2025 season. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unforeseen was in 1651

Rhymes for unforeseen

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Browse Nearby Words

unforeseeable
unforeseen
unforest
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unforeseen. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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