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Synonyms

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.

Etymology

Origin of unexpectedly

unexpected ( def. ) + -ly

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.

In January, he even sent a photographer stumbling on the red carpet after darting unexpectedly between his legs during a visit by Poland's president.

From Barron's

While giving no release date for the remakes, it unexpectedly announced a side-scrolling 2D prequel game Sons of Sparta with immediate release.

From BBC

They took heart from data Wednesday showing 130,000 US jobs were created last month, more than double what was forecast, while unemployment unexpectedly dipped.

From Barron's

The Dane's appointment was ultimately led by Daniel Levy - Tottenham's divisive former executive chairman who unexpectedly departed after 24 years in September.

From BBC

Some felt comforted because something was being done to solve the problem that had come upon them so unexpectedly to spoil the calm progression of their days.

From Literature

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.