by surprise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite her enthusiasm, the rigorous 12-month training process caught Paton by surprise.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

She wanted to meet with the group’s leadership to explain her late-breaking decision to challenge Mayor Karen Bass, her longtime ally, which took just about everyone in the city by surprise.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

Mullin declined to apologize to Paul for his past comments and, referring to the assault by his neighbor, said "I don't think anybody should be hit by surprise."

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

The administration says the blockade took it by surprise.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Caught by surprise, as Falkenhayn had planned, and overwhelmed by the enemy’s numbers and firepower, the French began to fall back as the Germans advanced toward the key forts of Vaux and Douaumont.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman