Meaning & Definition of word "Suddenly"
to
Suddenly
/ˈsʌdənli/
adverb:
- 1. in a sudden manner; unexpectedly and quickly.
- Example: The lights went out suddenly, plunging the room into darkness.
- 2. occurring without warning.
- Example: Suddenly, the car swerved to avoid hitting a deer.
- 3. at once, without delay.
- Example: She suddenly realized she had forgotten her keys.
- 4. in a way that is surprising or unexpected.
- Example: He suddenly burst into laughter, catching everyone off guard.
Etymology
Middle English, from sudden + -ly
Common Phrases and Expressions
out of the blue:
Unexpectedly; without advance notice.
all of a sudden:
Suddenly; quickly and unexpectedly.
in a heartbeat:
Very quickly; without delay.
Related Words
sudden:
Happening or done quickly and unexpectedly.
suddenness:
The quality of happening or being done quickly and unexpectedly.
Slang Meanings of suddenly
Meaning: Out of nowhere
Example Sentence: It hit me out of nowhere when I got the news.
Meaning: Boom!
Example Sentence: And then, boom! She was gone.