# unplanned

/ənˈpɫænd/ (US) · /ʌnplˈænd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unplanned
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

happening or done without being organized or intended in advance. You use this to describe things that occur by chance rather than by a schedule.

For teachers: not conceived or organized in advance; lacking a prior scheme or intention. Often used to describe events, expenses, or consequences that arise spontaneously.

## Examples

- The unplanned meeting lasted for two hours.
- An unplanned power outage forced the factory to stop production for the entire afternoon.
- While some critics viewed the city's growth as chaotic, others argued that its unplanned nature contributed to a unique and vibrant urban character.

## Usage notes

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

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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.