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Showing results for by surprise. Search instead for kulturpreise.
Definitions

by surprise

ADVERB
short
Synonyms
STRONG
suddenly unawares
WEAK
aback forthwith sudden unanticipatedly unaware unexpectedly without delay without hesitation without warning
ADVERB
unawares
Synonyms
STRONG
short
WEAK
aback abruptly accidentally by accident by mistake carelessly ignorantly inadvertently mistakenly off guard sudden surprisingly unconsciously unexpectedly unintentionally unknowingly unprepared unready unwittingly
Antonyms
WEAK
consciously knowingly

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.

The audience should be taken by surprise and realize, in the middle of their laughter, just how truly clever the joke is, causing them to laugh even harder.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

“It would certainly catch me by surprise and feel a little reckless. And I think I’d probably be the last person people would be worried about,” Cooke said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

This trade in ants has caught scientists and the authorities by surprise.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 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

It catches me by surprise, even though I was hoping to find it there.

From "A Place at the Table" by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan