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Definitions

sudden

[suhd-n] / ˈsʌd n /
ADJECTIVE
unexpected; happening quickly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abrupt hasty immediate precipitous quick rapid swift unforeseen unusual
WEAK
accelerated acute expeditious fast flash fleet headlong hurried impetuous impromptu impulsive out of the blue precipitant precipitate quickened rash rushing spasmodic speeded subito
Antonyms
STRONGEST
delayed gradual lazy leisurely slow sluggish
WEAK
expected

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 fund aims to support low-income households facing sudden financial shocks such as losing a job, unexpected bills, illness or changes in family circumstances.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

This leads to sudden and intense episodes of pain, swelling, and inflammation.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

That likely means investors need both Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and better than expected earnings growth to sustain the market’s sudden cease-fire optimism.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

Investors watch oil prices closely as a sudden spike can lead to a recession, he said, but recent trading action highlighted optimism that the energy-supply disruption triggered by the Iran conflict might be short-lived.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

AND THEN, ALL of a sudden, it looked as though we would not have to wait even this long.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom