bolt from the blue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bolt from the blue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom used to refer to a sudden, unexpected event that has a great impact. Example sentence: The sudden rainstorm was a bolt from the blue that no one was expecting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

No bolt from the blue, that.

The Economist

His was a bolt from the blue.

The New York Times - Sports

Byron's breakdown in 2011 was no bolt from the blue.

The Guardian

Wednesday's success was no bolt from the blue.

The New York Times - Sports

"This was a complete bolt from the blue.

The New York Times

It has come like bolt from the blue.

The New York Times

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Yet "Vespertine" is a radical shift, a new, bolt-from-the-blue sound.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bolt from the blue" to add dramatic effect when describing an event that was truly unexpected and impactful. It's particularly effective in news reporting or storytelling.

Common error

Avoid using "bolt from the blue" for minor surprises or inconveniences. Its strength lies in describing events with significant consequences or emotional impact.

Linguistic Context

The idiom "bolt from the blue" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a descriptor for an unexpected and impactful event. It provides a vivid and concise way to convey the suddenness and surprise associated with such occurrences, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bolt from the blue" is a common idiom used to describe a sudden and unexpected event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, adding dramatic flair to narratives. While effective, it's important to consider the intensity of the event and the formality of the writing, as overuse in minor situations or formal documents can diminish its impact. Alternatives like "out of the blue" or "unexpected surprise" can be considered depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of the blue

A more concise idiom with a similar meaning, lacking the intensity of "bolt".

sudden shock

Emphasizes the surprise and impact, focusing on the emotional or psychological effect.

complete surprise

Focuses on the thoroughness of the unexpected nature, indicating total astonishment.

unexpected surprise

Highlights the lack of anticipation, focusing on the element of astonishment.

bombshell

Highlights the shocking and disruptive nature of the unexpected news or event.

unforeseen event

Stresses the inability to predict the occurrence, framing it as an unavoidable incident.

unanticipated development

Focuses on the unexpected progression or unfolding of events.

thunderclap

Metaphorically describes a sudden and impactful event, similar to a loud thunderclap.

startling revelation

Highlights the unexpected disclosure of something previously unknown, emphasizing its shocking nature.

a rude awakening

Emphasizes the unpleasant and jarring nature of the sudden realization or event.

FAQs

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

You can use "bolt from the blue" to describe a sudden and unexpected event. For example: "The resignation of the CEO came as a "bolt from the blue" for the employees."

What does "bolt from the blue" mean?

The idiom "bolt from the blue" refers to a sudden, unexpected event, often with significant consequences. It implies that the event was completely unforeseen.

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

Alternatives include "out of the blue", "unexpected surprise", or "sudden shock", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While "bolt from the blue" is widely understood, it is generally more suitable for news articles, narratives or less formal contexts. In highly formal or academic writing, consider using more neutral alternatives like "unforeseen event" or "unanticipated development".