unexpected developments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unexpected developments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation or events that you did not anticipate or something that occurred suddenly and was not previously planned. For example: Due to the unexpected developments in the market, we had to make changes to our financial plan.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some were caused by unexpected developments overseas.

The New York Times

There have been some unexpected developments.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was a weird contest that featured several unexpected developments.

The New York Times - Sports

They reduce the fiscal flexibility to deal with unexpected developments.

The New York Times

These unexpected developments are further examples of the benefits of enantiospecific synthesis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Still, Kinder Morgan knows all too well that unexpected developments can upset the best of plans.

The New York Times

There would likely be unexpected developments, just as there were in the Volcker period.

The New York Times

Befitting the stormy nature of the issue, a number of public hearings and unexpected developments ensued.

The New York Times - Sports

But if the true favorites have emerged unscathed, there have still been two most unexpected developments.

The New York Times - Sports

We are increasingly likely to have to deal with unexpected developments".

The Guardian

Barring unexpected developments at the bargaining table, the season could have only a few weeks left.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unexpected developments", ensure the context clearly establishes what was initially expected or planned. This provides a stronger contrast and highlights the unforeseen nature of the events.

Common error

Avoid using "unexpected developments" as a generic placeholder without specifying the nature or impact of these developments. Always provide context or details to make the phrase meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unexpected developments" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes unforeseen events or changes. As Ludwig indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unexpected developments" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe unforeseen events or changes. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While versatile, it's important to use it with enough context to specify the nature and impact of these developments. Alternatives like "unforeseen developments" or "surprising developments" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended emphasis. Its widespread use across news, science, and business contexts underscores its general applicability, as the examples show.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unforeseen developments

Focuses on the lack of anticipation rather than just the surprise element.

surprising developments

Emphasizes the element of surprise associated with the unfolding events.

sudden developments

Highlights the abrupt and rapid nature of the occurrences.

unplanned developments

Stresses the absence of prior intention or arrangement in the unfolding events.

unpredicted developments

Highlights the inability to anticipate the events before they occurred.

unanticipated events

Shifts the focus slightly from ongoing 'developments' to discrete 'events'.

chance occurrences

Emphasizes the accidental and random nature of the events.

fortuitous events

Implies that the developments are not only unexpected but also beneficial or lucky.

remarkable incidents

Highlights the noteworthiness or unusual nature of the happenings.

startling revelations

Suggests that the developments involve the uncovering of previously unknown information.

FAQs

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

You can use "unexpected developments" to describe unforeseen events that alter a situation, such as: "Due to "unforeseen developments" in the economy, the company had to revise its strategy."

What can I say instead of "unexpected developments"?

You can use alternatives like "surprising developments", "unforeseen developments", or "sudden developments" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "unexpected developments" or "unexpectable developments"?

"Unexpected developments" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "Unexpectable developments" is not standard English.

How do "unexpected developments" differ from "unintended consequences"?

"Unexpected developments" refer to unforeseen events, while "unintended consequences" are the unplanned outcomes of a specific action or decision.