Word
unsuspecting
Phoneticsun·sus·pect·ing, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌənsəˈspɛktɪŋ/
UK/ʌnsəspˈɛktɪŋ/
Definition
adj. not aware that something bad or dangerous is about to happen. You use this to describe someone who is easily tricked because they do not suspect any trouble.
adj. not aware of any impending danger or deception; lacking suspicion. Often used to describe the target of a prank, crime, or surprise.
Examples
“The thief stole the wallet from an unsuspecting tourist.”
“The pranksters waited behind the door for an unsuspecting colleague to walk into the room.”
“The software update contained a hidden virus that quietly harvested data from thousands of unsuspecting users who believed they were simply improving their system's security.”
Examples
simple
“The thief stole the wallet from an unsuspecting tourist.”
contextual
“The pranksters waited behind the door for an unsuspecting colleague to walk into the room.”
complex
“The software update contained a hidden virus that quietly harvested data from thousands of unsuspecting users who believed they were simply improving their system's security.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before the noun it modifies.
Real-World Examples
“In other cases, unsuspecting couriers and delivery workers have effectively been used as mules.” “The Mail published more than a dozen pictures taken of the unsuspecting woman getting out of a vehicle and socializing with two others outside a restaurant.” - 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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