adverb
suddenly
Quickly and unexpectedly.
The lights suddenly go out while we are eating dinner.
Etymology
Suddenly is formed from sudden, whose older meaning concerns an unexpected occurrence. The adverb combines abrupt timing with lack of anticipation.
More examples
- She suddenly remembers where she left her keys.
- A deer suddenly darts across the road.
- The quiet room suddenly fills with laughter.
Forms
suddenly
sudden adjective — Happening quickly and without warning.
Similar words
- abruptly
- Emphasizes a sharp break rather than an unexpected occurrence.
- unexpectedly
- Emphasizes surprise without necessarily suggesting a rapid change.