What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unpredictable
Example
The weather in this region is unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for anything. [unpredictable: adjective]
Example
He's an unpredictable boss, you never know what he's going to do next. [unpredictable: adjective]
Example
The old car was unpredictable, sometimes it would start and sometimes it wouldn't. [unpredictable: adjective]
unexpected
Example
The sudden rainstorm was unexpected, we didn't bring any umbrellas. [unexpected: adjective]
Example
Her unexpected resignation shocked everyone in the office. [unexpected: adjective]
Example
The unexpected power outage caused chaos in the city. [unexpected: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unexpected is more commonly used than unpredictable in everyday language. Unexpected is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unpredictable is less common and often used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unpredictable and unexpected?
Both unpredictable and unexpected can be used in formal and informal contexts, but unpredictable may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its less common usage.
