How to Say "unforeseen event" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “unforeseen event” is “imprevisto” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
No puedo ir a la fiesta porque me surgió un imprevisto de última hora.
I can't go to the party because an unexpected thing came up at the last minute.
Siempre es bueno tener ahorros para cualquier imprevisto.
It's always good to have savings for any unexpected expense.
La reunión se retrasó por un imprevisto técnico.
The meeting was delayed due to a technical glitch.
Using 'Surgir' with Imprevisto
We almost always use the verb 'surgir' (to arise/come up) when an 'imprevisto' happens. Think of it like a problem 'popping up' out of nowhere.
Don't use it for people
Mistake: “Ese hombre es muy imprevisto.”
Correction: Ese hombre es muy impredecible. Use 'impredecible' for people who act in ways you can't predict. 'Imprevisto' is for situations, not personalities.
Related Translations
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