unexpectedly

[ uhn-ik-spek-tid-lee ]

adverb

1. in a way that is surprising or unforeseen:

   One of her friends passed away unexpectedly this week.

Word History and Origins

Origin of unexpectedly¹

unexpected ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

He unexpectedly extended his visit by a day for further discussions.

From BBC

Dancing 12 hours a day, half-naked in front of a crew was unexpectedly a “dopamine hit” for him.

From Los Angeles Times

Then, unexpectedly, he agreed to talk to us at the boxing gym in Puerto Rico that he co-owns with his brother.

From BBC

But after just three years in office, Mills died unexpectedly at the age of 68.

From BBC

Roxie's mother Ginger also died unexpectedly five days earlier, and vets say they cannot rule out this also being linked to firework noise.

From BBC

Related Words

• quickly
• suddenly
• unusually