1.
unexpected; unforeseen; unanticipated
Something that was not anticipated or predicted. A literary/formal expression using the classical negative form せぬ (= しない).
Usage
予期せぬ is a set phrase functioning as a pre-noun modifier. It uses the classical negative form せぬ (equivalent to しない in modern Japanese), giving it a somewhat formal or literary tone.
Common patterns
Always used before a noun: 予期せぬ + noun. The modern equivalent 予期しない is also used but sounds less natural as a fixed expression. The form 予期せぬ is preferred in writing and formal speech.
Forms
- 予期せぬ (classical negative — standard form)
- 予期しない (modern negative — less common as modifier)
- 予期しなかった (past form — "was unexpected")
Common collocations
Related Words
Compare:
予想外 (unexpected, unforeseen)