Word
unforeseen
Phoneticsun·fore·seen, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌənfɔɹˈsin/
UK/ʌnfɔːsˈiːn/
Definitions
01unexpected
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describes a situation or event that you did not see coming or expect to happen.
adj. not anticipated or predicted; occurring without prior warning or expectation.
“The project was delayed due to unforeseen problems with the building's foundation.”
“The company's sudden bankruptcy was precipitated by a series of unforeseen market shifts that rendered their primary product line obsolete overnight.”
Usage
Usually placed before the noun it describes, such as 'unforeseen circumstances' or 'unforeseen consequences'.
Synonyms
02unexpected events
C1 · Advanced Plural noun Formal · Technical
n. things that happen which were not planned or expected, often used when talking about extra costs.
n. events, incidents, or costs that were not anticipated. Often functions as a collective noun in formal or technical contexts.
“We should keep some extra money in the budget for the unforeseen.”
“The contract includes a specific clause to account for the unforeseen, ensuring that neither party is unfairly penalised by external disruptions.”
Usage
Typically preceded by the definite article 'the' to function as a collective noun.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Basic scientific research can lead to dramatic and unforeseen applications and technologies years down the line.” “She's not far away."
While Hunt finally broke the 11-second barrier in the 100m for the first time this season, there have been unforeseen challenges as far as the 200m is concerned.” Etymology
From un- + foreseen.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/unforeseen