unexpected
adj. · n.-
1 surprising or unplanned (adj.) B1 Intermediatedescribes something that happens even though you did not think it would.
not anticipated or foreseen; occurring without prior notice or expectation.
ExampleThe rain was unexpected because the morning sky had been perfectly clear.
ExampleThe company faced several unexpected challenges during the merger, ranging from cultural clashes to sudden regulatory changes.
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2 the unexpected (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatesurprising events or things that you did not plan for.
events or circumstances that were not anticipated; typically used with the definite article as a collective noun.
ExampleWhen you travel to a new country, you must be prepared for the unexpected.
ExampleA seasoned diplomat must always be prepared for the unexpected, as even the most stable negotiations can be derailed by a single stray comment.
UsageAlmost always used as 'the unexpected'.
- surprises
- unforeseen events
- the inevitable
From un- + expected.