unexpectedly

American  

[uhn-ik-spek-tid-lee] / ˌʌn ɪkˈspɛk tɪd li /

adverb

1. in a way that is surprising or unforeseen.

   One of her friends passed away unexpectedly this week.

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Etymology

Origin of unexpectedly

unexpected ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

When something happens unexpectedly, it takes you by surprise because you weren’t prepared for it, like a surprise party or a sudden rainstorm on a sunny day. The adverb unexpectedly comes from the word unexpected, which means "something that wasn’t anticipated or planned." When something happens unexpectedly, it catches you off guard and can lead to a range of emotions, like surprise, excitement, or even confusion. For example, you might unexpectedly bump into an old friend at the grocery store or receive an unexpected gift in the mail, creating a memorable moment.

Example Sentences

As El-Sayed unexpectedly prepared to take the stage at the convention, this dynamic played out for all to see.

From Slate • Apr. 29, 2026

The company is currently experiencing a leadership vacuum after its second-in-command, Fidji Simo, unexpectedly took medical leave earlier this month.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

That refers to when a heavily-shorted stock rises unexpectedly, forcing short-sellers to buy back shares to minimize their losses.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

UnitedHealth Group’s stock surged in early Tuesday trading after the healthcare giant increased its earnings guidance for the year and revealed unexpectedly strong first-quarter results.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

The sewing took effort—the cloth was tough, stiff with age; and several times he jabbed the needle up into the space under his fingernail—but he found it unexpectedly satisfying.

From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell

Related Words

• quickly
• suddenly
• unusually