Suddenly: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when something happens very quickly and unexpectedly, usually without any warning.

• She suddenly realized she had left her keys at home
• The car suddenly stopped in the middle of the road

This word is used when something happens that was not predicted or foreseen. It can be both positive and negative.

• He unexpectedly received a job offer from the company
• The power went out unexpectedly during the storm

This word is suitable for situations where something happens quickly and unexpectedly, often in a rude or curt manner. It can carry a negative connotation.

• He ended the conversation abruptly and walked away
• The meeting abruptly adjourned when the fire alarm went off

This phrase is used in casual or conversational English to describe something happening very quickly and without warning.

• All of a sudden, it started to rain
• The cat jumped on the table all of a sudden

Used when something happens quickly and without warning.

• The lights suddenly went out
• She suddenly realized she was late

Used when something happens that was not anticipated, which can be neutral or negative.

• His arrival was completely unexpected
• The car's sudden stop was unexpected

Used when something happens that causes surprise, often in a positive or neutral way.

• It was surprising to see him at the party
• The news was surprising to everyone

Used when something happens very quickly and may seem rude or shocking; often carries a negative connotation.

• Their conversation came to an abrupt end
• He made an abrupt decision to leave