all of a sudden
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: Happening in a very brief and unexpected moment; without any prior warning or indication.
Usage
This adverb is used to describe an event or change that occurs abruptly and surprisingly. It emphasizes the suddenness and lack of anticipation. * The weather changed all of a sudden, forcing us to run for cover. * All of a sudden, I remembered where I had left my keys.
Advanced Usage
- Narrative Emphasis: Often used in storytelling to create a dramatic shift or to introduce a surprising plot development.
- The hero was winning the fight. Then, all of a sudden, a new enemy appeared from the shadows.
Variants and Related Words
- Suddenly (adv.): The more common and slightly more formal synonym.
- The car stopped suddenly.
- All at once (adv.): Can be synonymous, often used for multiple things happening simultaneously with suddenness.
- All at once, the lights went out and the alarm sounded.
Synonyms
- Abruptly
- Unexpectedly
- Out of the blue
- Without warning
Related Phrases
- On the spur of the moment: Describes a decision made suddenly, without planning.
- We decided to go on a trip on the spur of the moment.
- In a flash: Happening extremely quickly and suddenly.
- The idea came to me in a flash.
Adverb
- happening unexpectedly
- suddenly she felt a sharp pain in her side
- without warning
- all at once, he started shouting