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Showing results for by surprise. Search instead for most surprise.
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.

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 war in Iran caught many people by surprise, including hundreds of traveling Americans.

From Salon • Mar. 4, 2026

Books were spread out along the entire length, which took her by surprise.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.