at an unexpected pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at an unexpected pace" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a speed or rate of change that is surprising or not anticipated. Example: "The project progressed at an unexpected pace, catching everyone off guard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

For readers, the biggest suspense is whether romance will blossom with Janie's sandy-haired fellow student Benjamin Burrows, whose "thrilling, defiant voice" and refusal to hide under the desks during the bomb drill make her "heart beat inside my rib cage at such an unexpected pace".

The New York Times - Books

It may seem a long road to go but I am quite confident that the growing interest in CCN proteins will fuel our progress at an, as yet, unexpected pace and efficiency.

Cell Communication and Signaling

With physical and biological changes occurring at unexpected pace, marine phycologists should now integrate and join their research efforts to be able to contribute efficiently for the conservation and management of coastal systems.

Journal of Sea Research

"The key to a woman's heart is an unexpected gift at an unexpected time".

Huffington Post

It has risen at an offensive pace.

The Economist

Yet spiders kill at an astonishing pace.

The New Yorker

Improvements are made at an affordable pace.

Independent

Medicine is advancing at an astonishing pace.

The Economist

New development platforms are being deployed at an unprecedented pace.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Global climates are changing at an unprecedented pace (IPCC 2014).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

"The state militarised at an alarming pace.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at an unexpected pace" to describe progress or changes that happen faster or differently than initially anticipated. This adds emphasis and surprise to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "at an unexpected pace" when the speed or rate is already known or predictable. This phrase works best when there is a genuine element of surprise or deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at an unexpected pace" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause, describing the manner in which an action is performed, specifically highlighting that the action happens more quickly or differently than anticipated. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at an unexpected pace" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe the surprising speed of an event or process. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts, primarily News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While not extremely common, it adds emphasis and detail to writing by highlighting the element of surprise. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the situation's context, avoiding misuse in predictable scenarios. Consider alternatives like "faster than anticipated" for varied expression. Based on Ludwig's analysis, using the query enriches your writing by conveying a sense of deviation from initial expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

faster than anticipated

Focuses on the speed exceeding expectations.

more rapidly than expected

Emphasizes the quickness and the surprise element.

at an unforeseen rate

Highlights the unforeseen nature of the rate of progress.

with surprising speed

Focuses on the surprising element of the speed.

at a quicker tempo than planned

More formal and emphasizes the deviation from the planned tempo.

at an accelerated rate

Highlights the increase in speed being faster than normal.

at an unpredicted velocity

Uses more technical terms for speed and emphasizes the lack of prediction.

at an unusually fast tempo

Emphasizes that the tempo or rate is faster than usual.

more swiftly than projected

Highlights the speed exceeding initial projections.

with unexpected haste

Focuses on the speed being rushed and surprising.

FAQs

How can I use "at an unexpected pace" in a sentence?

You can use "at an unexpected pace" to describe situations where progress or change occurs more rapidly or differently than anticipated. For example: "The project advanced at an unexpected pace, exceeding all initial projections."

What are some alternatives to "at an unexpected pace"?

Some alternatives include "faster than anticipated", "more rapidly than expected", or "at an unforeseen rate".

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

Yes, "at an unexpected pace" is suitable for formal writing, as it's grammatically correct and widely understood. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

What's the difference between "at an unexpected pace" and "at a rapid pace"?

"At a rapid pace" simply indicates something is happening quickly, while "at an unexpected pace" implies the speed is surprising or deviated from initial expectations. The latter adds an element of surprise or unpredictability.