Unintended

Adjective describing an action, consequence, or outcome that was not planned or foreseen. It implies that something happened unexpectedly or accidentally, often with implications of a lack of purpose or deliberateness. The degree of seriousness or impact can vary greatly, ranging from minor inconveniences to significant and unforeseen repercussions. The focus is on the absence of a conscious or intentional design behind the event.

Unintended meaning with examples

• The software update contained an unintended bug that caused widespread system crashes, disrupting operations across multiple departments and leading to a frantic effort to revert to the previous version. This was a costly error, highlighting the importance of rigorous testing before release.
• She made an unintended remark during the meeting that, while not malicious, offended a key client, jeopardizing the contract negotiations. Her choice of words caused an awkward silence and a tense atmosphere. She quickly apologized to the client to salvage the situation and save the deal.
• The artist's use of a specific shade of blue had an unintended effect; it perfectly matched the color of the sky, making the figures in the painting appear as though they were floating away. This accidental harmony enhanced the artwork's surrealism, enhancing the feeling.
• A misplaced ingredient created an unintended but surprisingly delicious flavor in the dish. The chef decided to experiment with it and made it a signature dish on the menu because customers loved it. Sometimes happy accidents lead to unforeseen, positive outcomes.