How Do You Spell BY SURPRISE?

Pronunciation: [ba͡ɪ səpɹˈa͡ɪz] (IPA)

The idiom "by surprise" is spelled with the letter "s" in surprise, despite the fact that it is pronounced with a "z" sound. This is because the word "surprise" came into English from French, where the "s" is pronounced. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the pronunciation of "by surprise" is /baɪ səˈpraɪz/, with the "s" sound represented by the symbol /s/ and the "z" sound by the symbol /z/. It is important to remember this spelling and pronunciation distinction in order to use this idiom correctly in writing and conversation.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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BY SURPRISE Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "by surprise" refers to an unexpected event or action that catches someone off guard, causing surprise or shock. It indicates a situation where the individual is taken unaware, experiencing an unexpected turn of events or a sudden occurrence. This phrase implies that the person was not prepared or had no foreknowledge of what was about to happen.

    When something happens "by surprise," it often leaves a person feeling astonished, startled, or even bewildered. It involves a lack of anticipation or foresight, as the individual did not perceive or foresee that particular event or action taking place.

    This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, such as in warfare, sports, or even everyday life, to describe situations where one side unexpectedly gains an advantage over another. For instance, a team in a sports competition might score a goal by surprise, catching the opposing team off guard. Similarly, a military force may launch a surprise attack, catching the enemy unprepared and enhancing their chances of success.

    Overall, "by surprise" signifies an unforeseen occurrence or action that momentarily disrupts the usual expectations or plans of an individual or group, often resulting in a state of shock or astonishment.

Common Misspellings for BY SURPRISE

  • vy surprise
  • ny surprise
  • hy surprise
  • gy surprise
  • bt surprise
  • bg surprise
  • bh surprise
  • bu surprise
  • b7 surprise
  • b6 surprise
  • by aurprise
  • by zurprise
  • by xurprise
  • by durprise
  • by eurprise
  • by wurprise
  • by syrprise
  • by shrprise
  • by sjrprise
  • by sirprise

Etymology of BY SURPRISE

The word "by" in the phrase "by surprise" originates from Old English "bi", which means "near", "at", or "by means of". "Surprise" is derived from the French word "surprendre", which means "to overtake" or "to seize". Therefore, the etymology of "by surprise" suggests being caught off guard or unprepared, as if something unexpected happened near or at the moment.

Idioms with the word BY SURPRISE

  • catch (someone) by surprise The idiom "catch (someone) by surprise" means to unexpectedly surprise or startle someone, often caused by an event or situation that person was not prepared for or did not anticipate.
  • be taken by surprise The definition of the idiom "be taken by surprise" is to be caught off guard, or to experience something unexpected or surprising without prior knowledge or anticipation.
  • take by surprise The idiom "take by surprise" means to catch someone off guard or unexpected, often resulting in a startled or shocked reaction.
  • take (sb) by surprise The idiom "take (sb) by surprise" means to completely catch someone off guard or unexpectedly, often by surprising them with something they were not prepared for or anticipating.
  • take sm or sth by surprise The idiom "take someone or something by surprise" means to catch someone or something unprepared or unexpectedly, usually resulting in astonishment or confusion.
  • take sm by surprise The idiom "take someone by surprise" means to catch someone off guard or unexpectedly. It refers to the act of surprising someone who was not prepared for a particular event, action, or information.