unexpectedly
Americanadverb
Etymology
Origin of unexpectedly
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Dame Jilly, who was an English author and journalist, died unexpectedly last October, aged 88, after suffering injuries from a fall at home.
From BBC • May 25, 2026
British private-sector activity also unexpectedly contracted this month, marking the first decline in output in over a year, S&P Global added.
From Barron's • May 21, 2026
In many cases, she said caregiving begins unexpectedly and without a clear plan.
From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026
From there, the whole thing gets nudged further into depth with oregano, paprika and, perhaps unexpectedly, soy sauce.
From Salon • May 19, 2026
But McLane also failed because, at the last minute, British warships unexpectedly appeared.
From "George Washington, Spymaster" by Thomas B. Allen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
