student asking question

What does "spring something on somebody" mean? Does it have negative meaning itself?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Spring something on somebody" is an idiom that refers to telling someone something important suddenly and unexpectedly. It has somewhat of a negative connotation because usually the receiver is stressed that they were told something important without any warning or time to prepare. Ex: My sister sprung on me yesterday that she is eight months pregnant. I can't believe I'm going to be an aunt in one month. Ex: During lunch, my best friend sprung on me that she is getting married in one week and wants me to be in the wedding. Now I only have one week to buy a dress.

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