unplanned event

Meanings

1. 1phrasecountable

   Something that happens without being arranged or expected in advance.

   Grammar: Countable: you can say 'an unplanned event' or 'unplanned events'.

   Patterns

   • an unplanned event
   • a series of unplanned events

   The festival was an unplanned event that grew out of a small street party.

   We had to change our schedule because of an unplanned event at the office.

   Unplanned events like sudden storms can ruin a picnic.

2. 2phrasecountablebusiness

   In business or project management, an unexpected occurrence that disrupts normal operations.

   Grammar: Often used in risk management to talk about things you must prepare for.

   Patterns

   • handle an unplanned event
   • respond to an unplanned event

   The team has a procedure for dealing with unplanned events such as power cuts.

   Insurance can protect a company against financial loss from unplanned events.

Word forms

Common combinations

unplanned event

The concert was an unplanned event, organized at the last minute.

deal with an unplanned event

We need a plan to deal with any unplanned event.

unplanned event occurs

If an unplanned event occurs, call the manager immediately.

due to an unplanned event

The delay was due to an unplanned event.

Synonyms and how they differ

unexpected occurrence

More formal and often used in reports; 'unplanned event' is slightly more neutral.

surprise

Usually refers to something pleasant or emotional; 'unplanned event' is neutral and factual.

Opposites

Word family

unplanned adjective

Not arranged beforehand; describes something that happens without planning.

event noun

Something that happens, especially something important or interesting.

Commonly confused: unplanned event or unexpected event?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “unplanned event”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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