What does sudden mean?
Sudden is an adjective describing something that happens quickly, abruptly, or without warning. It is especially common for changes, events, decisions, and realizations that arrive unexpectedly: a sudden noise, a sudden change in plans, or a sudden realization that a mistake had been made. The word can also indicate speed without necessarily implying danger or surprise, as in a sudden movement. Sudden differs from merely rapid: while rapid focuses on pace, sudden often emphasizes the lack of preparation or the abrupt transition from one situation to another. In expressions such as sudden death or sudden emergency, it conveys urgency and the need for immediate attention. Sudden is used in standard British and American English and is generally neutral, though its frequent association with abrupt developments can give it a slightly dramatic or cautionary tone.
adjectiveHappening quickly or without warning; abrupt or unexpected. A sudden change or event occurs with little or no warning.
- Happening quickly, abruptly, or without warning.
- Characterized by a rapid and often unanticipated change, event, or realization.
- Existing or occurring in a very short time, especially as a response to an emergency.
"The sudden shift in the weather forced the hikers to seek shelter."
"The sudden noise made everyone turn around."
"Her sudden decision to leave surprised the entire family."
A sudden event arrives in a flash, leaving no time to prepare.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sudden come from?
Sudden entered Middle English from Anglo-French, ultimately deriving from Latin subito, meaning suddenly or on the spot. The related Latin adjective subitanus contributed to the sense of occurring without warning. The form eventually developed the modern meaning of abrupt, unexpected, or rapidly occurring, while its adverbial derivative suddenly became a separate standard word.
Related word forms
How sudden is actually used
Sudden is commonly used for events, changes, decisions, and realizations. It often suggests an abrupt or unanticipated development, but can simply indicate speed when no surprise is implied.
Easily confused with sudden
Sadden means to make someone sad, whereas sudden describes something that happens quickly or without warning.