sudden synonyms

sudden

modif.

precipitate, abrupt, immediate, unexpected, unforeseen, swift, impromptu; see also immediate 1, unexpected.

sudden implies extreme quickness or hastiness and, usually, unexpectedness a sudden outburst of temper; precipitate adds the implication of rashness or lack of due deliberation a precipitate decision; abrupt implies an unexpected break coming without warning, often unceremoniously taken aback by his abrupt departure and it may suggest a curtness of speech an abrupt dismissal; impetuous implies vehement impulsiveness or extreme eagerness an impetuous suitor

all of a sudden

unexpectedly, suddenly, precipitously; see quickly 1.

Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.