Sudden
'sʌdən
Definitions
2 meaningsHappening quickly and unexpectedly.
'sʌdən
Happening or done quickly and unexpectedly.
The sudden noise startled the cat.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're walking outside, and *poof*—it starts raining! That's sudden! It means something happens without any warning.
👶 For kids: Happening fast and without warning.
More Examples
There was a sudden change in the weather.
She made a sudden decision to quit her job.
How It's Used
"The sudden rainstorm caught everyone by surprise."
"A sudden economic downturn affected global markets."
An unexpected event.
'sʌdən
An event that happens quickly and unexpectedly.
The sudden of his arrival caught everyone off guard.
💡 Simply: Think of a surprise party—the 'sudden' is the moment everyone jumps out and yells 'Surprise!'
👶 For kids: A surprise thing that happens quickly.
More Examples
The movie was full of dramatic suddens that kept the audience engaged.
The sudden made her jump.
How It's Used
"The story was filled with sudden twists and turns."
"The sudden of the alarm startled everyone."
Synonyms
From Middle English sodain, from Old French soudain, from Latin subitus ('taken from below', 'hasty').
The word 'sudden' has been used for centuries, and its meaning has remained relatively consistent throughout time, primarily to describe the unexpectedness or abruptness of an event.
Memory tip
Think of a sudden burst of energy or a sudden change in plans.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: subitus