# unexpectedly

/ˌənɪkˈspɛktɪdɫi/ (US) · /ˌʌnɛkspˈɛktɪdli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unexpectedly
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

happening in a way that you did not think would happen. You use this when something surprises you because you were not waiting for it.

For teachers: occurring in a manner that was not anticipated or foreseen. Typically modifies a verb to indicate a sudden or surprising change in circumstances.

## Examples

- The rain started unexpectedly during our picnic.
- The meeting ended unexpectedly early, giving everyone a chance to catch up on their emails.
- The CEO announced her resignation unexpectedly during the quarterly review, leaving the board of directors scrambling to find a suitable interim replacement.

## Pitfalls

- Not "It happened unexpected" but "It happened unexpectedly" — Learners often use the adjective form 'unexpected' when the adverb 'unexpectedly' is required to modify a verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause; can also appear at the start of a sentence for emphasis.

---

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.