a surprise to you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a surprise to you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something unexpected may affect or involve the person being addressed. Example: "I hope this news is not a surprise to you, as we had discussed the possibility before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So the best-selling game of 2015 so far, across all formats, might come as a surprise to you—I know it has me.

Vice

This can't be a surprise to you.

The New York Times - Magazine

Does that come as a surprise to you?

The New Yorker

Did the news come as a surprise to you? Completely.

The New Yorker

Readers in Europe: Is this a surprise to you?

The New York Times

Was that a surprise to you? JG: A complete surprise.

The Guardian - Tech

I have always been something of a surprise to you.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If this comes as a surprise to you, have no fear.

The Washington Post

If that comes as a surprise to you, there is a reason.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Is this news a surprise to you?

The New Yorker

It may come as a surprise to you it certainly surprised me that some people break addictions without any help.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a surprise to you" when you want to soften potentially negative news. The phrase acknowledges the unexpected nature of the information while maintaining a polite tone.

Common error

While generally acceptable, "a surprise to you" can sound slightly informal in very formal or academic writing. Consider using more direct and professional alternatives such as "unexpectedly" or "unanticipatedly" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a surprise to you" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression used to preface information that the listener or reader may not be expecting. As Ludwig AI suggests, it sets the stage for an unexpected revelation or piece of news.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

24%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a surprise to you" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed idiom used to introduce unexpected information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as a polite way to preface potentially surprising or unwelcome news. While its usage is widespread across various contexts, it's most commonly found in news and media, and should be used cautiously in formal or academic writing. Alternatives such as "unexpectedly" or "unanticipatedly" might be more appropriate in those settings. Understanding the nuances of its usage ensures effective and clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unexpected for you

Replaces the noun "surprise" with the adjective "unexpected", creating a more direct description.

something unforeseen for you

Replaces "surprise" with "unforeseen", which suggests it wasn't predicted or anticipated.

a shock to you

Substitutes "surprise" with "shock", indicating a stronger emotional impact.

something you weren't anticipating

Focuses on the lack of prior expectation.

something you might not expect

Rephrases the idea as something being contrary to expectations, using simpler language.

something that could catch you off guard

Emphasizes the element of being unprepared for the information.

contrary to your expectations

Directly states that something goes against what was expected.

news that may astonish you

Uses more formal vocabulary like "astonish" and frames it as "news", shifting the tone.

a revelation for you

Replaces "surprise" with "revelation", suggesting a moment of discovery.

contrary to what you might think

Highlights the contrast between expectation and reality.

FAQs

How can I use "a surprise to you" in a sentence?

You can use "a surprise to you" to introduce unexpected information or news. For example, "It may come as a surprise to you, but the project has been delayed."

What are some alternatives to "a surprise to you"?

Alternatives include "unexpected for you", "a shock to you", or "something you might not expect", depending on the context and level of formality you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a surprise to you"?

Yes, "a surprise to you" is grammatically correct and widely used. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in various contexts.

When is it best to use "a surprise to you" versus a more formal alternative?

Use "a surprise to you" in neutral or informal contexts when you want to soften the impact of unexpected information. In formal or academic settings, consider using alternatives like "unexpectedly" or "unanticipatedly" for a more professional tone.