unforeseen
uhn-faw-SEEN
Unforeseen (adj) means not expected or predicted in advance. Example: “The project was delayed by unforeseen circumstances.”
adj
1
Not expected or predicted in advance.
"The project was delayed by unforeseen circumstances."
"An unforeseen problem with the plumbing added weeks to the renovation."
How to use unforeseen
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that no one predicted would happen.
Common pairings
unforeseen circumstances
unforeseen consequences
unforeseen delay
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Word forms
- Plural
- unforeseens
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The project was delayed by _____ circumstances.
Etymology
From un- + foreseen.
Synonyms
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unanticipated
unseen
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for unforeseen
See all rhymes for unforeseen →Frequently asked questions
What does “unforeseen” mean?
The word “unforeseen” means not expected or predicted in advance. In plain terms, something that no one predicted would happen.
How do you pronounce “unforeseen”?
“Unforeseen” is pronounced uhn-faw-SEEN (/ˌʌnfɔɹˈsin/ in IPA).
How do you use “unforeseen” in a sentence?
Here is “unforeseen” used in a sentence: “The project was delayed by unforeseen circumstances.”
What part of speech is “unforeseen”?
“Unforeseen” is an adjective.
Is “unforeseen” a common word?
“Unforeseen” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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