Unforeseen: meaning, definitions and examples
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unforeseen
[ ˌʌn.fɔːˈsiːn ]
unexpected events
Not anticipated or predicted; unexpected.
Synonyms
sudden, unexpected, unpredicted.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unforeseen |
This word is best used when talking about events or circumstances that were not anticipated and could not have been predicted or planned for. It often implies a sense of surprise and the inability to prepare.
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| unexpected |
This term is used when something happens that was not expected or predicted, regardless of how quickly it happened. It is more neutral and can describe both positive and negative events.
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| unpredicted |
This word is appropriate for events or outcomes that could not be foreseen based on existing data or analysis. It is often used in more technical or scientific contexts.
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| sudden |
This word is used for events that happen very quickly and unexpectedly. It is often associated with an abrupt or immediate action and can sometimes have a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The storm caused unforeseen delays in the construction project.
- The unforeseen consequences of the decision became apparent only later.
planned events
Events that were not foreseen or predicted.
Synonyms
surprise happenings, unexpected occurrences, unpredicted events.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unforeseen |
Used in formal contexts to describe events that were not anticipated or planned for.
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| unpredicted events |
Used mostly in scientific or analytical contexts to describe events that were not forecasted.
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| unexpected occurrences |
Neutral and versatile, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, to describe events that happen without prior notice.
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| surprise happenings |
Informal, often used in everyday conversations to refer to events that catch people off guard.
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Examples of usage
- The budget did not account for unforeseen expenses.
- They had to adapt to the unforeseen challenges that arose during the trip.
Translations
Translations of the word "unforeseen" in other languages:
🇵🇹 imprevisto
🇮🇳 अप्रत्याशित
🇩🇪 unvorhergesehen
🇮🇩 tak terduga
🇺🇦 непередбачений
🇵🇱 nieprzewidziany
🇯🇵 予期しない
🇫🇷 imprévu
🇪🇸 imprevisto
🇹🇷 beklenmedik
🇰🇷 예기치 않은
🇸🇦 غير متوقع
🇨🇿 nepředvídaný
🇸🇰 nepredvídaný
🇨🇳 意外的
🇸🇮 nepričakovan
🇮🇸 óvæntur
🇰🇿 күтпеген
🇬🇪 მოუწონებელი
🇦🇿 gözlənilməz
🇲🇽 imprevisto
Etymology
The word 'unforeseen' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'foresee.' It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century, evolving to its current usage to describe events or situations that were not anticipated or predicted. The concept of the unforeseen has been a recurring theme in literature and philosophy, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life.