UNANTICIPATED Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

unanticipated

adjective

ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd

Definition of unanticipated

as in sudden

not expected ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program

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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 unanticipated More gets lost when implementation hits an unanticipated constraint. — Lorenzo Alvaro, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026 The eight-hour, first-time homebuyer course teaches the basics of all the hidden and unanticipated costs that come with purchasing a home, while a separate one-on-one session prepares buyers to understand basic bookkeeping and finance. — Melanie Stetson Freeman, Christian Science Monitor, 9 Sep. 2026 In late October 2025, the automaker Honda had to indefinitely shutter a Mexican plant that manufactures its SUVs, thanks to an unanticipated shortage of parts. — Chad P. Bown, Foreign Affairs, 1 Sep. 2026 The council voted to shift $400,000 set aside to replace a pump at the Spring Lake Pump Station to cover unanticipated costs at the treatment plant. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unanticipated

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unanticipated

Adjective

All of a sudden, Bass was a staggering champion lunging at a revived Raman, who swung and stung and ducked the way only a hungry up-and-comer can.

— Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
The Sagittarius Moon opposes Uranus, making a conversation, bit of news, or sudden change of perspective impossible to ignore.

— Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of sudden

Adjective

The pom-pom sandals at Givenchy were wonderful, fun, unexpected and exactly what fashion lovers are looking for from a spring runway show.

— Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
Be especially cautious about unexpected texts or calls that arrive afterward.

— Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of unexpected

Browse Nearby Words

unanswerable

unanticipated

unanticipatedly

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“Unanticipated.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unanticipated. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of unanticipated

adjective

Example Sentences

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