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All of a sudden

Pronunciation

🇬🇧 UK //ɔːl əv ə ˈsʌdən// 🇺🇸 US //ɔl əv ə ˈsʌdən//

Meaning of All of a sudden

Happening quickly and unexpectedly.

In simple words: Unexpectedly or very quickly.

All of a sudden in a sentence

• All of a sudden, it started to rain heavily.
• She left the room, and all of a sudden, the lights went out.
• All of a sudden, he shouted, startling everyone.

How to use All of a sudden

Used to describe a change that happens suddenly. Suitable for both spoken and written English; avoid in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a sudden event like a bolt from the blue.

Friends › S1 E1

All of a sudden, the phone starts to ring.

Frequently asked questions about "All of a sudden"

What does "All of a sudden" mean?

Unexpectedly or very quickly.

How do you use "All of a sudden" in a sentence?

All of a sudden, it started to rain heavily.

Can you give another example of "All of a sudden"?

She left the room, and all of a sudden, the lights went out.

What are synonyms for "All of a sudden"?

Common alternatives include suddenly, unexpectedly, instantly, immediately, and rapidly.

What is the opposite of "All of a sudden"?

Opposite meanings include gradually, slowly, and over time.

What words go with "All of a sudden"?

It commonly pairs with all of a sudden, a loud noise, all of a sudden, they appeared, and all of a sudden, it happened.

What are common mistakes when using "All of a sudden"?

Using in overly formal contexts. Confusing with similar phrases like 'suddenly.' Omitting 'of' in the phrase.

How do you pronounce "All of a sudden"?

US: //ɔl əv ə ˈsʌdən//, UK: //ɔːl əv ə ˈsʌdən//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use "All of a sudden"?

Used to describe a change that happens suddenly. Suitable for both spoken and written English; avoid in formal writing.