a bolt from the blue

USAGE SUMMARY

"a bolt from the blue" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression meaning an unexpected event, and is often used to describe a sudden, shocking occurrence. For example, "The news of the company's bankruptcy came as a bolt from the blue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His was a bolt from the blue.

The New York Times - Sports

Had it launched a "bolt from the blue" attack?

The New Yorker

The book struck me like a bolt from the blue.

The Guardian - Books

It was "a bolt from the blue," Fazili said.

The Washington Post

But then, around 10.30am, came a bolt from the blue.

The Guardian

Ergo: nuke them with a bolt from the blue.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This was totally a bolt from the blue," Mueller said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's kind of like a bolt from the blue".

The New York Times

These pages came to me like a bolt from the blue".

The New York Times - Arts

Another reason that windfalls are mismanaged is that they are often a bolt from the blue.

The New York Times

AFTER months of benign economic news, it came as a bolt from the blue.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bolt from the blue" to vividly describe events that are not only unexpected but also often carry a significant emotional or impactful weight. It's best suited for situations where the surprise is a key element of the narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "a bolt from the blue" for minor surprises or inconveniences. The phrase implies a significant shock or unexpectedness, and using it in trivial contexts can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bolt from the blue" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically acting as a noun phrase or an adverbial phrase. It is used to describe something that happens suddenly and unexpectedly. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bolt from the blue" is a common idiomatic phrase used to describe something sudden and unexpected. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is correct and widely used in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase serves to convey surprise and shock, emphasizing the unforeseen nature of an event. While its register is generally neutral, it's crucial to reserve its use for significant surprises, avoiding trivial applications. Consider alternatives like "out of the blue" or "completely unexpected" for similar meanings. Be mindful of the potential for overuse in formal writing, opting for alternatives such as "unforeseen event" when a more professional tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of the blue

Shorter and more common variant conveying suddenness and unexpectedness.

from a clear blue sky

Similar to the original, but emphasizes the lack of any prior indication of trouble.

completely unexpected

Directly states the lack of anticipation for an event.

sudden surprise

Highlights the abrupt and startling nature of an occurrence.

unforeseen event

Emphasizes the inability to predict or anticipate something.

without warning

Focuses on the absence of any prior indication or signal.

like a bombshell

Conveys the shocking and disruptive impact of unexpected news.

a complete shock

Highlights the feeling of surprise and disbelief.

came as a complete surprise

Verbally emphasizes an unanticipated arrival or event.

unanticipated occurrence

A more formal way to describe something that was not expected.

FAQs

How can I use "a bolt from the blue" in a sentence?

Use "a bolt from the blue" to describe a sudden, unexpected event or piece of news. For example: "The announcement of his resignation came as "a bolt from the blue"".

What does "a bolt from the blue" mean?

The phrase "a bolt from the blue" refers to something unexpected and sudden, like a surprising piece of news or an unforeseen event. It often implies a shock or surprise.

What can I say instead of "a bolt from the blue"?

You can use alternatives like "out of the blue", "completely unexpected", or "sudden surprise" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a bolt from the blue" in formal writing?

While "a bolt from the blue" is widely understood, it may be more suitable for less formal contexts. In formal writing, consider using "unforeseen event" or "unanticipated occurrence" to maintain a more professional tone.