Unpredicted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unpredicted

[ʌnprɪˈdɪktɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in a sentence

Not predicted or expected; not foreseen.

Synonyms

surprising, unexpected, unforeseen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unpredicted

Used when referring to events or outcomes that were not anticipated or not calculated in advance.

  • The stock market experienced unpredicted growth this quarter
unexpected

Used when something happens that was not expected, often leading to reactions of shock or inconvenience.

  • Her visit was completely unexpected, but it was good to see her
unforeseen

Often used in a formal or serious context to describe events or consequences that were not anticipated and usually carry negative implications.

  • The company faced unforeseen challenges that delayed the project
surprising

Used when describing something that elicits a reaction of shock or astonishment, often positively.

  • The magician's trick was quite surprising to the audience

Examples of usage

  • The sudden storm was an unpredicted event.
  • Her unpredicted absence left us scrambling to cover her responsibilities.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In fields like meteorology, certain weather events can be labeled as unpredicted due to the complex nature of atmospheric conditions.
  • The 'butterfly effect' in chaos theory suggests that small changes in initial conditions can lead to unpredicted results in large systems.

Literature

  • In storytelling, an unpredicted twist can be a key element that surprises readers and keeps the narrative engaging.
  • Authors often build suspense by foreshadowing unpredicted events, allowing readers to guess outcomes without revealing them.

Psychology

  • Unexpected outcomes can impact mental well-being; while positive surprises can boost happiness, negative surprises may lead to stress or anxiety.
  • Cognitive bias can lead people to misjudge how predictable certain scenarios are based on prior experiences.

Pop Culture

  • Many famous movies revolve around unpredicted plot twists, often leaving viewers shocked and discussing the ending long after it's over.
  • Television shows frequently employ cliffhangers as a device for introducing unpredicted elements, keeping audiences engaged season after season.

Origin of 'unpredicted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'predict,' which comes from Latin roots meaning 'to say in advance.'
  • The concept of predicting has roots in ancient cultures who relied on omens and signs to forecast future events.

The word 'unpredicted' is a combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'predict.' It originated in the late 17th century and has been used to describe events or situations that were not anticipated or foreseen.


See also: predictability, predictable, predictably, predicted, predicting, prediction, predictions, predictive, predictor, underpredict, unpredictability, unpredictable, unpredictably.