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

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

Although I have no formal training in pasta making, it’s a personal passion that unexpectedly flourished here.

From Salon

But on Wednesday, as the court day was getting under way, Mr Sharif unexpectedly said: “I admit what I said in my phone call and my written note. Every single word.”

From BBC

In so doing, she drastically alters the relationships of all the show’s major characters — and forces two characters’ budding relationship into an unexpectedly political place.

From Salon

NFL star John Madden, who reached the top of his profession in coaching, announcing and video games, died unexpectedly Tuesday morning at age 85.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• quickly
• suddenly
• unusually