sudden
/ˈsʌdən/
The word describes an event that occurs without warning, creating a sense of shock or disruption. It focuses on the lack of preparation for the event rather than just the speed of the action itself. While "quick" refers to velocity and "abrupt" often carries a negative or jarring connotation (like a rude change in tone), "sudden" is more neutral. It simply indicates that there was no gradual lead-up to the occurrence. It is typically used in contexts where a state of stability is interrupted, such as a sudden change in weather, a sudden realization, or a sudden death.
💬Casual Conversation
Ugh, a sudden charge for student health insurance. They're always nickeling and diming me.
OH DEAR IS IT A LOT CAN I HELP YOU WITH THAT
Meanings
Happening or done quickly and unexpectedly.
"The car made a sudden stop to avoid hitting the deer."
Rapid and unexpected in occurrence.
"His sudden departure left everyone in the office confused."
Collocations & Compounds
sudden death
Death that occurs unexpectedly, often in a sporting context.
The game ended in sudden death overtime.
sudden illness
An illness that begins abruptly and without warning.
She had to leave work due to a sudden illness.
sudden stop
An abrupt cessation of movement.
The car made a sudden stop to avoid hitting the pedestrian.
sudden change
An alteration that happens quickly and unexpectedly.
There was a sudden change in the weather.
sudden impact
A forceful collision that occurs without warning.
The sudden impact of the crash caused significant damage.
Idioms & Sayings
all of a sudden
unexpectedly or without warning
All of a sudden, the lights went out and the room became pitch black.