unforeseen

adjective

un·​fore·​seen ˌən-fȯr-ˈsēn How to pronounce unforeseen (audio)
: not anticipated or expected : not foreseen : unexpected
an unforeseen delay
unforeseen consequences

Examples of unforeseen in a Sentence

there are almost always unforeseen consequences for any major endeavor unforeseen problems delayed the project beyond its deadline
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The next crisis may be political, reputational, social or something unforeseen. Toby Wong, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 To be sure, the exact details of any trade deal might have unforeseen impacts on the market or the economy, especially with apparently competing priorities among members of the president’s team. Jesse Pound, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2025 The unexpected risk: Saltwater An unforeseen threat has also started to creep into the Everglades: saltwater. John Kominoski, The Conversation, 15 Apr. 2025 But the story of English football in the 21st century has been full of unintended consequences, unsuitable owners and unforeseen problems. Oliver Kay, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unforeseen

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unforeseen was in 1651

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unforeseen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unforeseen. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unforeseen

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!