Happening quickly and unexpectedly, without warning or preparation. Used to describe actions or events that occur abruptly or with surprising speed.
From 'sudden' (14th century) plus '-ly.' 'Sudden' comes from Anglo-French 'sodein,' from Latin 'subitaneus' meaning 'coming unawares,' from 'subitus' (sudden) related to 'subire' (to come up from below). The temporal meaning of unexpected quickness has remained constant.
The word 'suddenly' is a master of dramatic timing in literature and speech - it can transform any mundane sentence into a moment of suspense or surprise. Neurologically, our brains are wired to pay special attention to sudden changes, making this word particularly powerful in grabbing attention.
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