# unannounced

/ˌənəˈnaʊnst/ (US) · /ʌnɐnˈaʊnst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unannounced
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

happening without any warning or notice. You use this to describe someone arriving or something starting when you did not expect it.

For teachers: occurring or arriving without prior notice or warning. Often used to describe visits, inspections, or changes that happen suddenly.

## Examples

- The manager made an unannounced visit to the office.
- The health inspector arrived unannounced to ensure the kitchen staff followed safety rules every day.
- The sudden, unannounced departure of the CEO caused a sharp drop in the company's stock price as investors scrambled to understand the leadership vacuum.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun, but can also follow linking verbs like 'remain' or 'be'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.