Sudden: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that happens quickly and without warning.

• His sudden departure surprised everyone.
• There was a sudden change in the weather.

Used when something happens suddenly and was not anticipated, emphasizing the element of surprise.

• She received some unexpected news.
• Their visit was completely unexpected.

Often used to describe a sudden change or stopping that is notably harsh or unexpected. Can have a negative connotation.

• She made an abrupt decision to quit her job.
• The car came to an abrupt halt.

Refers to something happening in a short amount of time or at a fast speed. Generally neutral and common in daily use.

• I'll be back in a quick moment.
• He gave a quick response to the question.

Describes something happening very fast, often used in technical or formal contexts.

• The rapid advancement of technology is astonishing.
• There was a rapid increase in temperature.

Used when describing something that happens quickly and unexpectedly.

• The weather took a sudden turn for the worse
• His sudden departure surprised everyone

Used when describing something that happens unexpectedly, often with a positive or neutral connotation.

• Her promotion came as a pleasant surprise
• They threw a surprise party for his birthday

Used to describe an extreme emotional reaction to something unexpected, often negative or distressing.

• The community was in shock after the tragic accident
• It was a shock to hear that he had been fired

Refers to a shocking and often upsetting piece of news or event, usually with significant impact. Often has a negative connotation.

• The news of the CEO's resignation was a bombshell
• She dropped a bombshell when she announced her decision to leave the company

Use 'sudden' to describe something happening quickly and without any warning. Often used to describe events, changes, or movements that occur surprisingly.

• A sudden storm caught everyone by surprise
• Her sudden illness shocked the family

'Abruptly' is suitable for situations where actions or events happen very quickly and without much warning, often in a rude or unexpected manner.

• He ended the meeting abruptly and stormed out
• The car stopped abruptly, causing everyone to lurch forward

'Unexpectedly' describes events or actions that happen without anticipation. There's an element of surprise, but it doesn’t emphasize speed as much as the unforeseen nature.

• He arrived home unexpectedly early
• The results of the election came unexpectedly to many

Use 'quickly' to describe actions done with speed, but not necessarily with surprise or without preparation. It emphasizes the pace of an action.

• She quickly packed her bags and left
• The fire spread quickly through the building