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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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 unexpected Karen Sevillano Is Advocating For Women’s Wellness Karen Sevillano’s creator journey began with an unexpected viral video during the pandemic. Alejandra Rojas, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025 Protect your property and possessions from fire, theft, and other unexpected perils. Liz Knueven, CNBC, 25 July 2025 No release date has been set thus far, and Hogan’s unexpected death will require filmmakers to re-tool portions of the documentary. Elizabeth Wagmeister, CNN Money, 25 July 2025 Supervisors named an acting county counsel on Thursday to replace Silva, who just before her departure had faced an unexpected performance evaluation outside of the normal schedule for how the board typically assesses top officials’ performance. Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected
sudden
Adjective
  • While some seemed excited about Buck's sudden appearance, some speculated about the possibility of Stephanopoulos leaving the show.
    Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025
  • Then Kings of Leon and Black Keys come out of Nashville and then all of a sudden the diversity of the music that was coming out of there started to really grow over a short period of time.
    Melonee Hurt, The Tennessean, 25 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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