unanticipated

adjective

ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd How to pronounce unanticipated (audio)
Definition of unanticipatednext
as in sudden
not expected ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 unanticipated The unanticipated problem now is that the rise of artificial intelligence is making machines capable of passing these tests. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026 What risks could arise from blind spots or unanticipated changes in the environment? — Jim Deloach, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 In a statement to the Idaho Statesman, Crapo remained optimistic that the housing bill would become law despite the president’s unanticipated delay. — Mark Dee june 29, Idaho Statesman, 29 June 2026 Just as the backrooms set design added to the movie’s jump-scare effect, the real world’s design added an unanticipated comedic one. — Maya Ibbitson, Architectural Digest, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for unanticipated
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unanticipated
  1. sudden
  2. unexpected
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
Adjective
  • Alongside grapefruit and bergamot, an Earl Grey tea accord adds unexpected warmth.
    — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026
  • An unexpected benefit of this process is that its solid carbon byproduct turned out to be graphite, a material used in batteries and electrodes that the US currently imports.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of unexpected

Browse Nearby Words

unanswerable
unanticipated
unanticipatedly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unanticipated.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unanticipated. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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