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.
Bilton was named to the post last week, an announcement that caught many in the media industry by surprise.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026
Since then tourists have started flocking to the island, taking locals by surprise.
From BBC • May 30, 2026
And so when she hears it again, it takes her by surprise.
From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026
These events are a reminder of how we are completely taken by surprise, and how such short spaces of time show the limits of traditional warning systems.
From Science Daily • May 21, 2026
So with my head bent and my mind focused on my stitches, her query took me by surprise.
From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan
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