Out of the blue

usgb
phrase

Suddenly and unexpectedly.

Out of the blue, she asked if I wanted to go to dinner
Visual representation of "out of the blue" - Suddenly and unexpectedly

Often appears as...

  • came out of the blue
  • appeared out of the blue

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "out of the blue"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected News

Use 'out of the blue' to express surprise about unpredicted information or events.

Illustration for Unexpected News
He dropped out of college out of the blue; nobody saw it coming.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Dramatic Impact

The phrase adds drama to a story, emphasizing the shock or surprise element.

Illustration for Dramatic Impact
Out of the blue, a stranger handed her a mysterious package.
LampPro Tip 3/3

No Prior Indication

Indicates something happened without any signs or warnings that it was going to happen.

Illustration for No Prior Indication
The company was thriving, but the CEO's resignation came out of the blue.
Visual representation of the word "Out of the blue"

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