an unexpected windfall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unexpected windfall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unforeseen gain or benefit, often in a financial context. Example: "After years of hard work, she received an unexpected windfall when she won the lottery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"It is an unexpected windfall.

The New York Times

For VoiceStream shareholders, the payment is an unexpected windfall.

The New York Times

High coltan prices last year gave them an unexpected windfall.

The New York Times - Magazine

One bright light is an unexpected windfall in crab.

The New York Times

By contrast, applying an unexpected windfall tax might actually increase emissions.

The Guardian - Opinion

The fallout, however, has proved an unexpected windfall for one actor: Mark Wahlberg.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Some in Ireland had initially suggested a massive, unexpected windfall was nothing to complain about.

The Guardian - Business

Some confused King fans picked up Schultz's book, and while the mix-up resulted in some nasty Amazon reviews, Schultz chronicled the upside with a popular blog about the unexpected windfall, Spending Stephen King's Money.

Los Angeles Times

He helped lead the Conservatives to an unprecedented election victory in May and used an unexpected budget windfall to "end austerity" in December.

Independent

Mr Chavez received an unexpected cash windfall when the cost of a barrel more than tripled after reaching a low of $8.

The Guardian

The change has been a welcome relief for consumers and energy-intensive industries, for which the change is an unexpected financial windfall.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unexpected windfall", ensure the context clearly indicates the source and nature of the gain. Be specific about what constitutes the 'windfall' to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of "an unexpected windfall". While it represents a positive gain, ensure that its impact is portrayed accurately and not excessively dramatized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unexpected windfall" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to an unforeseen gain or benefit. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in diverse contexts, consistent with Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an unexpected windfall" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a sudden or unforeseen gain, often of a financial nature. According to Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as in formal and business communications. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly identifies the source and nature of the gain, while avoiding exaggeration. Alternatives include "a sudden gain" or "a surprise bonus". The phrase is generally appropriate for both formal and informal writing, making it a versatile expression for describing fortunate and unforeseen circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sudden gain

Focuses on the abrupt nature of the benefit.

a surprise bonus

Emphasizes the element of surprise and the beneficial nature of the gain, often in a financial context.

a stroke of luck

Highlights the role of chance and good fortune in obtaining the benefit.

a fortunate break

Suggests a positive turning point or opportunity.

an unforeseen advantage

Stresses the unexpected and beneficial nature of the opportunity.

a serendipitous discovery

Highlights the accidental and beneficial nature of the finding.

a providential blessing

Emphasizes the divine or fortunate nature of the gain.

a welcome surprise

Highlights the positive and unexpected nature of the event.

a piece of good fortune

Focuses on the luck and positive outcome associated with the event.

a lucky break

Similar to a fortunate break, but with a stronger emphasis on luck.

FAQs

How can I use "an unexpected windfall" in a sentence?

You can use "an unexpected windfall" to describe a sudden or unforeseen gain or benefit. For example, "The company experienced "an unexpected windfall" due to increased sales."

What are some alternatives to saying "an unexpected windfall"?

Alternatives include "a sudden gain", "a surprise bonus", or "a stroke of luck", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "an unexpected windfall" in formal writing?

Yes, "an unexpected windfall" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business or financial contexts, to describe unforeseen financial gains or benefits.

What's the difference between "an unexpected windfall" and "an anticipated windfall"?

"An unexpected windfall" refers to a gain that was not foreseen or planned for, while "an anticipated windfall" refers to a gain that was expected or predicted. They are antonyms.