at unexpected times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at unexpected times" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe events or occurrences that happen without prior notice or at irregular intervals. Example: "The weather can change dramatically, often at unexpected times, catching travelers off guard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The best conversations happen at unexpected times.

The Guardian

Many turn up at unexpected times.

The Guardian

It's a feeling that strikes at unexpected times.

The Washington Post

When you're desperate to make a good deal, breakthroughs can come at unexpected times and places.

Harvard University

Whenever Kargbo heard the guards' footsteps at unexpected times, he grew anxious.

The New Yorker

The long road is one chosen because opportunities will occur at unexpected times.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

— Shop workers say "thank you" at slightly unexpected times.

The New York Times

It's not uncommon to run into traffic at random unexpected times and days of the week.

Huffington Post

Be aware that it does rain at very unexpected times, so a convertible or other open-air vehicles isn't the best for renting.

WikiHow

People grow, things change, and life comes and goes in the most unexpected ways at the most unexpected times.

The New York Times

Look for tall people and hoops tie-ins at the most unexpected times and places.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emotional reactions, using "at unexpected times" can effectively convey the lingering impact of a past event or trauma.

Common error

Avoid using "at unexpected times" when the context already implies unpredictability. For example, saying "the stock market crashed at unexpected times" is redundant since market crashes are inherently unexpected. Instead, focus on the specific circumstances surrounding the event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at unexpected times" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action or event occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at unexpected times" is a grammatically sound and versatile adverbial phrase used to underscore the unpredictable nature of events. As Ludwig AI confirms, its frequent appearance in news, academic, and general writing demonstrates its widespread acceptance and utility. While alternatives like ""out of the blue"" or ""unpredictably"" may offer subtle variations in meaning, "at unexpected times" remains a clear and effective way to highlight the element of surprise. Remember to avoid overuse in contexts where unpredictability is already implied to maintain impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without prior warning

Emphasizes the absence of any advance notice.

unpredictably

Focuses on the inability to foresee when something will happen.

out of the blue

This idiom suggests something happening suddenly and without warning.

at irregular intervals

Highlights the inconsistent timing of occurrences.

in an unforeseen manner

Highlights that not just timing but the way things unfold was unexpected

unforeseenly

Focuses on the lack of foresight regarding the timing of the event.

by surprise

Indicates an element of astonishment due to the unexpected nature of the event.

on the spur of the moment

Implies a spontaneous action or event occurring without planning.

spontaneously

Suggests a sudden and unplanned occurrence.

randomly

Suggests a lack of pattern or predictability in timing.

FAQs

How can I use "at unexpected times" in a sentence?

You can use "at unexpected times" to describe when something happens without being planned or predicted, such as "Memories of the event resurfaced "at unexpected times", triggering strong emotional responses".

What are some alternatives to "at unexpected times"?

Some alternatives include "out of the blue", "unpredictably", or "without prior warning", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify that something happens "at unexpected times"?

No, specifying "at unexpected times" is not always necessary. Only use it when the timing or frequency is particularly relevant to the point you're making. Sometimes, the unexpected nature is already implied by the context.

What's the difference between "at unexpected times" and "at unpredictable times"?

While similar, "at unexpected times" emphasizes the surprise element, whereas "at unpredictable times" highlights the inability to foresee when something will occur. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the surprise or the lack of predictability.