Definition

Something that is expected and does not cause surprise.

Example

The ending of the movie was unsurprising because it followed the same pattern as many others.

Conversation

Did you hear about the ending of that new movie?

Yeah, it was pretty unsurprising how it all turned out.

I agree! I felt like I saw it coming from the start.

Exactly! It seems like they always go for the same twists.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsurprising → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "surprising" (from the verb "surprise", which comes from Old French *surprendre*, meaning to take over or seize). The word "unsurprising" means not causing surprise or not unexpected.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') causing a 'seizure' of expectation ('surprise') — that's why unsurprising means something that does not catch you off guard.

Visually Confused Words