suddenly

Word parts

sudden + -ly

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈsʌdn̩li/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Adverb

Positive suddenly

Comparative more suddenly

Superlative most suddenly

1. If something happens suddenly, it happens very quickly when you don't expect it to happen.

   My son had been sitting in the chair beside me. Then, suddenly, I realised he was gone.