Definition

The condition of something happening that is not anticipated or foreseen.

Example

The unexpectedness of the storm caught everyone off guard.

Conversation

Did you hear about the unexpectedness of last night's storm?

Yeah, I couldn't believe how quickly it arrived!

I know, right? It really caught everyone off guard.

Exactly! It was one of those nights where you just never know what to expect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unexpectedness → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "expect" (from Latin "exspectare", meaning to look out for or await), and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "unexpectedness" refers to the quality of not being anticipated or looked out for.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') expecting something ('expect') — that's why unexpectedness means the state of not being anticipated.

Visually Confused Words