develop unexpectedly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "develop unexpectedly" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a situation or outcome that arises without prior indication or prediction. For example: "The project began to develop unexpectedly, leading to surprising results." Alternative expressions include "emerge unexpectedly" and "arise unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Where facilities and appropriate interventions are available, it is estimated 90% of such maternal deaths can be avoided; especially when 15% of these complications develop unexpectedly and become life threatening [ 1].

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Only these and a few others have the financial resources to station experienced reporters in all areas of the world where news develops regularly (in order to ensure access to well-organized transmission facilities) or to send them wherever news develops unexpectedly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He developed an unexpectedly warm friendship with an unlikely ex-president, George H. W. Bush, as they joined forces for Asian tsunami relief.

The New York Times - Books

World trade talks intended to help the developing nations unexpectedly collapsed today when delegates from Africa, the Caribbean and Asia walked out, accusing wealthy nations of failing to offer sufficient compromises on agriculture and other issues.

The New York Times

The emphasis is on critically ill patients who unexpectedly develop serious conditions that should be rapidly diagnosed and treated given the limited resources during transport.

Clinical Simulation Operations, Engineering, and Management

Thuret notes that some cancer patients unexpectedly develop symptoms of depression even after being told they are cured of their cancer.

Huffington Post

We did not observe an acceleration in the development of lymphocytic tumors; however, nearly 100% of the Tax+Arf-/ mice unexpectedly developed OS (a tumor of primary OB) (Figures 2a,b).

Plosone

The recording indicated a situation had developed "suddenly and unexpectedly", the source added.

The Guardian

In the Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens neighborhoods of Brooklyn, Barboursville has unexpectedly developed a small following.

The New York Times

Bianco's narrator has a complicated psychological makeup that is elegantly drawn, and the plot develops inexorably yet unexpectedly to the surprising ending.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What began as a news conference by protest organizers on Monday afternoon in the Square of the Unknown Soldier unexpectedly developed into a gathering of almost 1,000 people.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "develop unexpectedly", ensure the context clearly establishes what was initially expected or predicted. This contrast enhances the impact of the unexpected development.

Common error

Avoid using "develop unexpectedly" when the outcome was simply undesirable but predictable. This phrase is most effective when the development defies logical anticipation, not just preferred outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop unexpectedly" functions as a modifier, specifically an adverbial phrase modifying the verb. It indicates the manner in which something develops, highlighting the surprise or lack of anticipation associated with the development. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "develop unexpectedly" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to describe unforeseen changes or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently across various contexts, including science, news media, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "arise suddenly" or "emerge surprisingly" exist, "develop unexpectedly" effectively conveys the nuanced meaning of something progressing in an unanticipated manner. When using the phrase, ensure the context highlights the contrast between what was expected and what actually occurred for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arise suddenly

Focuses on the suddenness of the event, omitting the implication of being unforeseen.

emerge surprisingly

Emphasizes the surprising nature of the emergence, less about the developmental process.

occur out of the blue

Highlights the unexpectedness and suddenness of the occurrence, often implying a lack of warning.

unfold surprisingly

Focuses on the surprising way in which a situation or event unfolds.

transpire unexpectedly

Emphasizes the occurrence of an event in an unexpected manner.

materialize unforeseen

Highlights the unforeseen materialization of something, often implying a tangible outcome.

spring up suddenly

Emphasizes the quick and unexpected appearance of something.

arise without warning

Focuses on the lack of warning or anticipation preceding the event.

come about unexpectedly

A more general alternative, simply stating that something happened without prior expectation.

take an unexpected turn

Focuses on a change in direction or outcome that was not anticipated.

FAQs

How can I use "develop unexpectedly" in a sentence?

You can use "develop unexpectedly" to describe situations where an unforeseen change or outcome occurs. For example: "The project began to "develop unexpectedly", leading to surprising results."

What can I say instead of "develop unexpectedly"?

Alternatives include "arise suddenly", "emerge surprisingly", or "occur out of the blue", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "develop unexpectedly"?

While "develop" can imply a process of unfolding, adding "unexpectedly" emphasizes that the development took a surprising or unforeseen turn, providing additional clarity and impact.

Which is more formal, "develop unexpectedly" or "arise unexpectedly"?

"Arise unexpectedly" might be perceived as slightly more formal due to the verb "arise", but both phrases are generally suitable for professional and academic contexts. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.