UNEXPECTED Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

unexpected

adjective

ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd

Definition of unexpected

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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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 unexpected Dry years aren’t necessarily unexpected, but the 2026 drought started much earlier than usual. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026 SpaceX determined to take advantage of this unexpected development. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 27 Aug. 2026 The move was not unexpected after the upstart tour filed a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act notice last month—a legal requirement to notify workers of potential layoffs. — Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Instead, the movie’s unexpected main attraction became indelible proof of its timelessly powerful thesis of acceptance. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected

sudden

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

Definition of sudden

Browse Nearby Words

unexotic

unexpected

unexpectedly

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“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of unexpected

adjective

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