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

In a personal essay published Friday on Substack, 34-year-old Jake Reiner described the “nightmare” of unexpectedly losing his parents last December.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Taiwan announced Tuesday that Lai was postponing his trip to Eswatini -- the island's only diplomatic ally in Africa -- after "Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar unexpectedly and without prior notice revoked the charter's overflight permits."

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

The healthcare giant increased its earnings guidance for the year and revealed unexpectedly strong first-quarter results.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

And he opened the cellar door and started down, nearly tripping when Captain Cook unexpectedly tobogganed down after him.

From "Mr. Popper's Penguins" by Florence Atwater and Richard Atwater

Related Words

• quickly
• suddenly
• unusually