unanticipated outcome

/ˌʌn.ænt.ɪˈpeɪ.tɪd ˌaʊt.kʌm/ · un.an.ti.cip.a.ted.out.com.e

noun

An event or result that is not predicted or expected. The unanticipated outcome of the experiment led to a breakthrough discovery.

noun

A situation or consequence that arises unexpectedly. The unanticipated outcome of the company's decision was a significant loss of revenue.

Synonyms

unexpected result unforeseen consequence surprising outcome unplanned event unforeseen outcome unpredicted result surprise

Antonyms

anticipated outcome expected result planned event

Did you know? The concept of unanticipated outcomes is a key aspect of chaos theory, which studies complex systems that exhibit unpredictable behavior.

Related terms

outcome result consequence event situation prediction expectation

Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 30, 2026