Unexpected Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unexpected
[ˌʌnɪkˈspɛktɪd ]
Definitions
surprise
Not expected or regarded as likely to happen; happening or coming quickly and without warning.
Synonyms
abrupt, surprising, unanticipated, unforeseen.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unexpected |
Use this word when something happens that was not planned or predicted. It is neutral and can describe both good and bad situations.
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| surprising |
Use this when something happens that causes surprise. This word is often used positively, indicating pleasant surprises, but it can also be neutral.
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| unforeseen |
This word describes something that was not predicted or seen in advance. It is typically used in more formal contexts and can indicate elements that were not planned, often with negative outcomes.
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| abrupt |
This word is used when something happens suddenly and quickly, often with a negative connotation. It can describe changes or interruptions that are sharp and possibly rude.
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| unanticipated |
This term is suitable for describing something that was not expected or foreseen. It is more formal and can be used in a variety of contexts, including both positive and negative situations.
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Examples of usage
- The sudden storm was unexpected and caught everyone off guard.
- Her unexpected visit brought a smile to his face.
- The unexpected news left them in a state of shock.
variety
Different from what is normal or usual; not anticipated.
Synonyms
astonishing, surprising, unforeseen, unpredicted.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unexpected |
Used to describe something that was not anticipated or predicted. It can be neutral, positive, or negative.
|
| unforeseen |
Used in more formal contexts to describe events or circumstances that could not have been predicted or planned for.
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| surprising |
Used to describe something that causes surprise. It can be positive or negative, but generally less intense than 'astonishing'.
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| unpredicted |
Used to describe something that was not predicted, often in a more technical or scientific context.
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| astonishing |
Used to describe something that is extremely surprising or amazing, often in a positive sense.
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Examples of usage
- The unexpected twist in the plot kept the audience engaged.
- His unexpected choice of career path surprised everyone.
- She received an unexpected gift on her birthday.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Unexpected events can trigger curiosity, making us want to learn more about what happened.
- Surprises can evoke strong emotional responses, often leading to laughter or shock, depending on the context.
Pop Culture
- In films and television, unexpected plot twists are often used to keep audiences engaged and excited.
- Stand-up comedians frequently utilize unexpected punchlines to enhance humor and create memorable jokes.
Science
- In science, unexpected results from experiments can lead to new discoveries and advancements.
- The phenomenon of 'serendipity' is when people stumble upon unexpected findings that change their understanding of a field.
Literature
- Writers often incorporate unexpected twists in stories to create suspense and surprise the reader.
- Many classic novels feature characters facing unexpected challenges that lead to their development and growth.
Origin of 'unexpected'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'exspectare,' which means to look out for something.
- It was formed by adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not,' to 'expected,' which is the past participle of 'expect.'
The word 'unexpected' originated from the combination of 'un-' (meaning 'not') and 'expected' (past participle of 'expect'). It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The concept of the unexpected has always intrigued and fascinated people, as it adds excitement and surprise to our lives.
See also: expect, expectancy, expectant, expectantly, expectation, expectations, expected, expectedly, expecting, expectorate, unexpectedly, unexpectedness.