UNEXPECTED Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

unexpected

adjective

ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd

Definition of unexpected

as in sudden

not expected the failure of the backup generator was unexpected and a contingency for which we weren't prepared

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Recent Examples of unexpected While sticking to your own personal style identity is important, little moments of release keep things fun and unexpected. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 13 Aug. 2026 Lastly, in an unexpected but amazing find, in 2015, archaeologists used data from WorldView-3 to discover what is thought to be a lost Viking village in Newfoundland. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 13 Aug. 2026 The brand grounded those references in Wrangler’s Western heritage through dark denim, rich prints, and unexpected texture. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026 The government’s unexpected announcement came after the CRTC has decided to up the streamer contributions from 5% to 15%, with the Liberal Party warning costs would be passed on to consumers. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected

sudden

Adjective

The sudden loss of mass means the strength of the primary star’s gravity drops suddenly, causing the secondary companion to get flung out into space at dizzying speeds.

— Phil Plait, Scientific American, 14 Aug. 2026
But the sudden reversal in many of its biggest stock bets, compounded by losses on the other side of its portfolio and the use of leverage, quickly turned into a liquidity crunch.

— Yun Li, CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of sudden

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unexotic

unexpected

unexpectedly

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“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of unexpected

adjective

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