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imprevisto means unexpected event; surprise — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 22, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

imprevisto

noun • /[eem-preh-BEES-toh]/

unexpected event; surprise

Example:

Tuvimos un imprevisto y perdimos el bus.

We had a surprise issue and missed the bus.

🧠 What does imprevisto mean?

Imprevisto is a Spanish noun that translates to "unexpected event" or "surprise" in English. It often refers to something unplanned that happens, especially during a trip or journey. It can be something positive, negative, or neutral, simply something you didn't anticipate.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tuvimos un pequeño imprevisto con el coche de alquiler.
    We had a small unforeseen issue with the rental car.
  • ¡Qué imprevisto verte aquí!
    What a surprise to see you here!
  • Siempre guarda algo de dinero para imprevistos.
    Always keep some money for unexpected events.
  • El retraso del vuelo fue un imprevisto frustrante.
    The flight delay was a frustrating unforeseen event.
  • Debido a un imprevisto, tendremos que cambiar nuestros planes.
    Due to an unexpected event, we'll have to change our plans.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'imprevisto' comes from the verb 'prever' (to foresee), with the prefix 'im-' indicating negation.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "imprevisto"

Synonyms: contratiempo, incidencia, sorpresa
Opposites: previsto, planeado, esperado

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'unexpected event' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'unexpected event' is 'imprevisto'. You can also use 'acontecimiento imprevisto' for a more formal tone, or 'sorpresa' if it's a pleasant surprise.
How do you pronounce 'imprevisto' in Spanish?
It's pronounced eem-preh-VEE-sto. The stress is on the 'vee' syllable.
How do you use 'imprevisto' in a sentence?
Here are a few examples: 'Tuvimos un imprevisto con el vuelo' (We had an unexpected issue with the flight), or 'Siempre hay que estar preparado para imprevistos' (You always have to be prepared for the unexpected).
What is the English translation of 'imprevisto'?
Imprevisto translates to 'unexpected event', 'surprise', or 'unforeseen event'.
Does 'imprevisto' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'imprevisto' can be plural: 'imprevistos'. While it doesn't have a distinct feminine form, if you need to emphasize it refers to a feminine noun, you could use 'situación imprevista'.
Is 'imprevisto' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it's a frequently used word, especially when talking about travel or plans.
Does 'imprevisto' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'imprevisto' doesn't have any slang meanings or double meanings. It's a straightforward word.
Is 'imprevisto' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'imprevisto' are consistent across Spain and Latin America.

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