by surprise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite her enthusiasm, the rigorous 12-month training process caught Paton by surprise.

From BBC

She wanted to meet with the group’s leadership to explain her late-breaking decision to challenge Mayor Karen Bass, her longtime ally, which took just about everyone in the city by surprise.

From Los Angeles Times

The pelvic floor physio however, did catch her by surprise.

From BBC

So I was taken completely by surprise when I walked into Lizzie’s room a few minutes later and found Karl sitting there at her bedside in his hat and his coat, the two of them chatting away like old friends.

From Literature

Mullin declined to apologize to Paul for his past comments and, referring to the assault by his neighbor, said "I don't think anybody should be hit by surprise."

From Barron's