surprising timing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "surprising timing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unexpected occurrence or event that happens at a particular moment, often implying that the timing is noteworthy or significant. Example: "The surprising timing of the announcement caught everyone off guard, as it came just days before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

BOWING to the inevitable, but with surprising timing, Shinzo Abe announced his resignation as Japan's prime minister on Wednesday September 12th, just under a year after coming to office.

The Economist

Hardly surprising timing, of course.

TechCrunch

Combined with the surprising timing of the book after the death of her sister, Alice, who had been the diligent protector of her work and legacy many wondered if the decision to publish Watchman was made without Lee's approval.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Ebersol's departure was not altogether surprising, but the timing was.

The New York Times - Sports

"What is surprising is the timing, although Whitacre can now leave on a high note," said David E. Cole, head of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich.

The New York Times

It also created ironies – brief, but even more surprising – about the timing of his misdemeanours, which have erupted only a week after being voted by his fellow players as winner of the Stefan Edberg award for sportsmanship for a record fifth time.

The Guardian - Sport

Just as surprising was the timing of some of these trips: Whereas some migrations commenced just after the distant rainfalls occurred, several others didn't begin until weeks after the lake-generating rains had come and gone.

Science Magazine

These results are surprising, given the timing of rhAPC administration.

Critical Care

Therefore, it is not surprising that the timing of flowering is closely associated with sugar homeostasis.

BMC Plant Biology

She knew that Schimanski had a D.U.I. arrest that technically gave ICE cause to detain her, but the timing was surprising.

The New Yorker

Still, the timing was surprising, because Cardinal Edward M. Egan, the archbishop emeritus of New York, will not turn 80 until April.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "surprising timing" to add emphasis when the unexpected moment is crucial to the narrative or analysis. It is stronger than simply saying "unexpected".

Common error

Avoid using "surprising timing" when the timing is logically predictable or expected given the circumstances. This dilutes the phrase's impact and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "surprising timing" functions primarily as a descriptor, adding a layer of unexpectedness or remarkableness to a particular moment or event. This descriptor enriches the context, making the timing itself a focal point of interest. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "surprising timing" is deemed grammatically correct and usable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to emphasize the unexpected occurrence of an event, often prompting further scrutiny of its implications. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register that suits professional communications. While "unexpected timing" is a close alternative, "surprising timing" adds a layer of astonishment. To maximize impact, use "surprising timing" when the unexpected moment genuinely alters the narrative, and avoid it when the timing is predictable. In short, "surprising timing" is a valuable tool for writers aiming to highlight the noteworthy and unexpected aspects of time-sensitive events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unexpected timing

Focuses more directly on the lack of anticipation.

unforeseen moment

Highlights that the moment itself was not predicted.

coincidental timing

Suggests the timing is due to chance or coincidence.

fortuitous moment

Implies the timing is lucky or beneficial.

peculiar timing

Emphasizes the odd or strange nature of the timing.

curious moment

Focuses on the intrigue or interest the timing creates.

strange timing

Highlights how unusual the timing is.

unusual moment

Emphasizes the infrequency of the timing.

remarkable timing

Indicates that the timing is noteworthy and stands out.

serendipitous timing

Implies a happy accident in the timing.

FAQs

How can I use "surprising timing" in a sentence?

Use "surprising timing" to describe an event that occurred at an unexpected or noteworthy moment. For instance, "The "surprising timing" of the announcement raised many questions."

What are some alternatives to "surprising timing"?

Alternatives include "unexpected timing", "peculiar timing", or "remarkable timing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "unexpected timing" or "surprising timing"?

Both phrases are suitable, but "surprising timing" often implies a greater degree of astonishment or remarkableness than "unexpected timing", which simply indicates a lack of anticipation.

Can "surprising timing" have negative connotations?

Yes, depending on the context. It can suggest that something was deliberately timed to cause disruption or harm, or that unfortunate circumstances resulted from the timing.