# unforeseen

/ˌənfɔɹˈsin/ (US) · /ʌnfɔːsˈiːn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unforeseen
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. unexpected

adjective · CEFR B2

describes a situation or event that you did not see coming or expect to happen.

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. unexpected events

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

things that happen which were not planned or expected, often used when talking about extra costs.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The project was delayed due to unforeseen problems.
- The company had to adjust its budget after several unforeseen expenses arose during the final stage of production.
- While the initial strategy was sound, the sudden shift in global trade policy created an unforeseen obstacle that required the entire board to rethink their long-term expansion goals.

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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.