sudden
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈsʌd.ən/
KK: /sʌdən/
adjective
Definition
Happening quickly and unexpectedly, often without any warning.
Example
The sudden rain caught everyone off guard.
Conversation
Did you see that sudden rainstorm this afternoon?
Yeah, it was so unexpected!
I know, right? It went from sunny to pouring in minutes.
Exactly! I wish I had brought an umbrella.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
abrupt
unexpected
swift
Antonyms
gradual
slow
predictable
noun
Definition
An unexpected event or occurrence that happens quickly and without warning.
Example
The sudden storm caught everyone by surprise.
Conversation
Did you hear about that sudden storm last night?
Yeah, it came out of nowhere!
I know, right? It was so unexpected.
Root Explanation
Sudden → It originates from Middle English 'sodeyn', which comes from Old French 'soudain', meaning unexpected or occurring without warning. The word describes something that happens quickly and unexpectedly.
Memory Tip
Think of something that happens 'unexpectedly' — that's what 'sudden' means.
Visually Confused Words
asudden
sodden
sadden
mudden
ludden
cudden