unexpected circumstance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unexpected circumstance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unforeseen event or situation that affects plans or outcomes. Example: "Due to an unexpected circumstance, the meeting has been postponed until further notice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Most times that self-belief is latent, but it gets triggered by some unexpected circumstance.

The Guardian - Sport

Safety factor of elastic stage and ultimate stage are also defined to evaluate safety reservation of the structure under unexpected circumstance.

Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology

Please note that course videos are intended for EWMBA students who are missing class due to a professional conflict or unexpected circumstance.

University of California, Berkeley

The present work describes the design and implementation of a low-cost infrastructure network based on ZigBee technology to alert drivers (or even override them by using active safety systems) in the case of some unexpected circumstance on the road so that they can prepare for the appropriate handling of their vehicles.

Transportation Research Part C: Emerging Technologies

From the 1930s to the 1980s, she liked to move about unplanned, relishing the unexpected circumstance, the juxtaposition of kebabs, tin plates and licked fingers "along the road" - or "long days, gazing and guzzling" through narrow and antique streets - and dining the next night, much admired and listened to, at an embassy or a palace in Rajasthan.

The Guardian

In a brief dispatch, the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced that Ms Ri "displayed the heroic self-sacrificing spirit of safeguarding the security of the headquarters of the revolution in an unexpected circumstance". The phrase "headquarters of the revolution" is often used to refer to the country's supreme leadership.

The Telegraph

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

It's so that we can respond to unexpected circumstances.

The New York Times

I sip my negroni and contemplate my new, unexpected circumstances.

The New York Times - Arts

President Trump, clearly, has an eye for luxury — even in the most unexpected circumstances.

The Washington Post

Despite the unexpected circumstances, Davis has proved a natural for the role of snowmobile racing ambassador.

The New York Times - Sports

In this environment, though, buyers are forcing through these provisions in unexpected circumstances.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unexpected circumstance" when you want to emphasize the unforeseen nature of a situation that requires adaptation or adjustment. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "unexpected circumstance" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "unforeseen event" or "contingency" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unexpected circumstance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across varied contexts, indicating its role in describing unforeseen events or situations. For example, "the home team scored the winner in unexpected circumstance".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unexpected circumstance" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes unforeseen events or situations. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While "unexpected circumstance" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, consider using synonyms like "unforeseen event" or "contingency" to avoid repetitiveness. Its function is to communicate the unanticipated nature of a situation, often leading to necessary adjustments or consequences. By understanding its usage and exploring related phrases, you can enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unforeseen event

Focuses on the event itself being not predicted.

surprising situation

Emphasizes the element of surprise in the given situation.

unpredicted scenario

Highlights that the scenario was not part of any prediction.

chance occurrence

Suggests a random or accidental event that took place.

fortuitous incident

Highlights the incidental and potentially beneficial nature of the occurrence.

contingency

Implies the need for a plan to deal with possible future events or circumstances.

unforeseeable development

Highlights the unpredictable nature of how the situation evolved.

sudden twist

Emphasizes an abrupt and unexpected change in events.

unplanned event

Stresses the absence of planning.

exceptional case

Indicates the situation is unusual and departs from the norm.

FAQs

How can I use "unexpected circumstance" in a sentence?

"Unexpected circumstance" can be used to describe a situation that was not predicted or planned for. For example, "Due to an unexpected circumstance, the project timeline had to be adjusted."

What's a more formal alternative to "unexpected circumstance"?

In a more formal setting, you could use "unforeseen event" or "contingency" to convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

What's the difference between "unexpected circumstance" and "unforeseen circumstance"?

While both phrases are similar, "unforeseen circumstance" often implies something that was impossible to predict, whereas "unexpected circumstance" simply means it was not anticipated. They are largely interchangeable, but "unforeseen circumstance" might carry a slightly stronger sense of inevitability.

When should I use "unexpected circumstance" versus "surprising situation"?

"Unexpected circumstance" is generally used when the situation impacts plans or requires a response, whereas "surprising situation" simply highlights that something was surprising or unanticipated. "Unexpected circumstance" often has practical implications.