French translation of unawares is 
à l’improviste

Meaning of "unawares" in English

The word "unawares" is an adverb used to describe being caught off guard or by surprise. It implies a lack of preparation or awareness about an unexpected event or situation. When something happens unawares, it typically occurs suddenly and unexpectedly, often requiring a quick or improvised response. The term is generally used to underscore the element of surprise or unpreparedness in a situation, highlighting the abrupt nature of the occurrence.

Meaning of "à l’improviste" in French

The expression "à l’improviste" in French translates to "unexpectedly" or "without warning." It captures the essence of something occurring without prior notice or forethought, often surprising the individuals involved. Like its English counterpart, it emphasizes the suddenness and unforeseen nature of an event. It is commonly used in contexts where actions are taken or events unfold spontaneously, without prior planning.

Pronunciation of "unawares" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˌʌnəˈwɛrz/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "unawares" may slightly vary between British and American English, but generally retains a consistent sound. In American English, the stress is typically on the second syllable, while in British English, the pronunciation might be softer. Regional accents might slightly alter the vowel sounds, but the overall pronunciation remains close to this transcription.

Pronunciation of "à l’improviste" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /a lɛ̃.pʁɔ.vist/

Pronunciation Variations: In various French-speaking regions, such as Quebec, the pronunciation might be slightly different due to accent variations. However, the difference is generally subtle and still aligns closely with the provided transcription. The nasality of "improviste" can vary with regional accents, but it remains comprehensible to native French speakers.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. He was taken unawares by the sudden change in plans.
   (Il a été pris à l’improviste par le changement soudain de plans.)

2. The storm caught everyone unawares on their way home.
   (La tempête a surpris tout le monde à l’improviste en rentrant chez eux.)

3. She arrived at the meeting unawares of the latest developments.
   (Elle est arrivée à la réunion à l’improviste sans savoir les derniers développements.)

4. They found themselves unawares in a tense situation.
   (Ils se sont retrouvés à l’improviste dans une situation tendue.)

5. The news came unawares and left she was stunned.
   (La nouvelle est venue à l’improviste et l’a laissée stupéfaite.)

6. He stumbled unawares into the conversation between colleagues.
   (Il est tombé à l’improviste sur la conversation entre collègues.)

7. The guests showed up unawares, causing a flurry of activity.
   (Les invités sont arrivés à l’improviste, provoquant une agitation.)

8. Taken unawares, he forgot his prepared speech.
   (Pris à l’improviste, il a oublié son discours préparé.)

9. She discovered unawares that she had left her keys at home.
   (Elle a découvert à l’improviste qu’elle avait laissé ses clés à la maison.)

10. The CEO walked in unawares during the meeting.
    (Le PDG est entré à l’improviste pendant la réunion.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "unawares" in English

Synonyms: unexpectedly, suddenly, by surprise, unprepared, off guard

Antonyms: knowingly, preparedly, expectedly, foresightedly, predictably

Similar Words: inadvertently, accidentally, carelessly, unknowingly, inadvertently

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "à l’improviste" in French

Synonyms: soudainement, inopinément, subitement, sans avertissement, de manière imprévue

Antonyms: intentionnellement, délibérément, préparé, prévu, consciemment

Similar Words: spontanément, au pied levé, aussitôt, sur le champ, sans préparation

Disclaimer: These examples may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Translate.com, or its company Translate LLC. We welcome feedback: report an example sentence to our team.