unanticipated

adjective

un·​an·​tic·​i·​pat·​ed ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd How to pronounce unanticipated (audio)
: not anticipated : unexpected, unforeseen
unanticipatedly adverb

Examples of unanticipated in a Sentence

The new policy has had some unanticipated side effects. ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program
Recent Examples on the Web Barring an unanticipated discontinuation, the initial term will be extended automatically for a multiyear period beginning May 1 of next year, subject to the parties’ respective renewal, extension and termination rights. Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 18 Oct. 2024 But when unanticipated side effects emerge, resentments between the sisters come to a head. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 18 Oct. 2024 First was the possibility of miscalculation—that an attack by one party would lead to unanticipated casualties and force the other side into an unwanted war. Dalia Dassa Kaye, Foreign Affairs, 2 Oct. 2024 The sudden, unanticipated degradation of Hezbollah has shattered tired, old assumptions that Iran’s most vaunted proxy was untouchable, catching the U.S.—and many others—by surprise, right as the global community was calling for a cease-fire. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, TIME, 29 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unanticipated 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unanticipated.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unanticipated was circa 1779

Dictionary Entries Near unanticipated

Cite this Entry

“Unanticipated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unanticipated. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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