That was unexpected

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "That was unexpected" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express surprise or disbelief about an event or situation that was not anticipated. Example: "When she announced her resignation during the meeting, I couldn't help but think, 'That was unexpected.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He showed a warmth that was unexpected.

The Guardian

"The project triggered something inside all of us that was unexpected," he continues.

Independent

"The no-hitter into the sixth inning, that was unexpected," the Gov said.

The New York Times

Mr. Morvillo asked him to give an example of one thing that was unexpected.

The New York Times

Mr. Bellone's election ends a period of political tumult on Long Island that was unexpected and at times head-snapping.

The New York Times

Update: Mr. Cheney's comments about Sarah Palin drew some respectful objections from one expected source — and one that was unexpected.

The New York Times

We remember a vivid person, a remark, a sight that was unexpected, an occasion on which we felt something profoundly.

The New Yorker

It was something of a Diana moment: an outpouring of grief and emotion that was unexpected as the death itself.

The Guardian - Opinion

I went for: "Whoah, that was unexpected – was that really meant for me?" He did not reply.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The direct connection between the Madoff Ponzi scheme and the Mets' revenues is something that was unexpected," said Marc Ganis, a sports-industry consultant.

The New York Times

This sign of lengthening days, the promise of a change of season, had an effect on her that was unexpected and crushing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing when using this phrase. While generally neutral, its impact can change based on the surrounding context. For example, following it with an exclamation mark can amplify the sense of surprise.

Common error

While "That was unexpected" is versatile, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your expressions by using synonyms like "I didn't see that coming" or "That took me by surprise" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "That was unexpected" primarily functions as an exclamatory statement expressing surprise or disbelief. It typically follows an event or piece of information that deviates from expectations. Examples found by Ludwig confirm its role in conveying a reaction to unforeseen circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Science & Research

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "That was unexpected" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express surprise or a lack of anticipation. Ludwig AI indicates it is usable in many written English contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science-related sources, it serves to signal a reaction to unforeseen events. For variety, consider alternatives like "That caught me off guard" or "I didn't see that coming". Remember to avoid overuse and tailor your choice of words to suit the formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I didn't anticipate that

Replaces the more passive voice with a direct statement of lack of anticipation.

That caught me off guard

Emphasizes the suddenness and unpreparedness caused by the unexpected event.

That took me by surprise

Focuses on the element of surprise experienced by the speaker.

I didn't see that coming

A more colloquial expression indicating a complete lack of foresight.

That was unforeseen

Uses a more formal vocabulary to express the unexpected nature of the event.

It was a surprise to me

Shifts the focus slightly to the speaker's personal experience of surprise.

That was unpredictable

Highlights the inherent inability to predict the event.

I wasn't expecting that

A straightforward statement of not anticipating the event.

That was quite a shock

Emphasizes the degree of surprise and potential impact of the event.

That's not what I expected

Highlights the difference between what was anticipated and what actually occurred.

FAQs

How can I use "That was unexpected" in a sentence?

You can use "That was unexpected" to express surprise or disbelief about an event. For example, "When the company announced record profits, that was unexpected." You might also say, "I didn't expect that" or "I wasn't expecting that".

What are some alternatives to saying "That was unexpected"?

Some alternatives include "That took me by surprise", "I didn't see that coming", or "That was unforeseen", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "That was unexpected" in formal writing?

Yes, "That was unexpected" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, consider the specific context and audience. In highly formal or academic writing, you might opt for a more sophisticated alternative like "That was unforeseen".

What's the difference between "That was unexpected" and "That was surprising"?

Both phrases express a degree of astonishment, but "That was unexpected" emphasizes the lack of anticipation, while "That was surprising" highlights the feeling of astonishment itself. You could also use "That caught me off guard" as an alternative.