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.
St. Louis Cardinals player Jordan Walker dramatically improved his performance in 2026, helping the team unexpectedly contend for playoffs.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026
Perhaps unexpectedly, the department said it did not note a substantial increase in asthma, acute respiratory symptoms or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-related emergency department visits during the fire.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026
Brent crude prices have unexpectedly fallen to $72 per barrel, matching pre-war levels despite ongoing Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
From Barron's • Jun. 29, 2026
But, in 2021, Donaldson was thrust into his own battle for the soul of the DUP, after Arlene Foster was unexpectedly ousted as leader.
From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026
After a while, however, my wounds began to heal, and I found that I didn’t cry unexpectedly anymore.
From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall
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.
