untoward
adj. C1 Advanced US //əntəˈwɔɹd// UK //ʌntʊwˈɔːd// un·to·ward
adj. unpleasant, unexpected, or dangerous. You use this to describe something that goes wrong in a way you did not plan for.
adj. unpleasant, unexpected, or dangerous in nature. Often used in formal or technical contexts to describe adverse events or outcomes.
The company is prepared for any untoward event.
The safety protocol is designed to prevent any untoward incidents during the chemical experiment.
While the initial results were promising, the researchers remained vigilant for any untoward side effects that might emerge during the extended observation period.
From un- + toward (“to + -ward”).