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.
Unexpectedly long security checkpoint lines at some airports have caused some passengers to miss their flights, and airports are warning travelers to prepare for hourslong waits.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 15, 2026
Unexpectedly, these interactions took place inside structures called endosomes, cellular compartments that usually help recycle materials rather than host U6 snRNA.
From Science Daily • Nov. 30, 2025
Unexpectedly strong economic growth in the third quarter provided support.
From Barron's • Nov. 28, 2025
Unexpectedly, Hampton has assumed all first-team reps, handling a heavy workload as Harris remains sidelined with no timetable to return after suffering a superficial eye injury in a fireworks accident.
From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 30, 2025
Unexpectedly, she placed her hand on his arm.
From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith
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.
