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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Recent Examples of unexpected In all fairness, Halley's subpar performance was not unexpected. — Joe Rao, Space.com, 13 Oct. 2026 Build on existing training and teach employees to pause and verify before acting on unexpected requests. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 Mehra and Kapadia both note during the interview for this article how unexpected the number of people JioHotstar has recorded bingeing through the series was, given the themes. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026 That made an unexpected offer to star opposite Ben Affleck in his latest feature, Animals, a welcome surprise. — Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected

sudden

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

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 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of unexpected

adjective

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