element of surprise
noun phrase
: the unexpected or surprising character of something
The attackers were relying on the element of surprise.
Examples of element of surprise in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
If planning a full-on adventure feels overwhelming, try incorporating a small element of surprise into your date night.
—
Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025
The past three years, for instance, have demonstrated that the element of surprise remains an integral part of war.
—Mick Ryan, Foreign Affairs, 21 Feb. 2025
Sage said the tactic has three absolute requirements: the element of surprise, overwhelming power and moving as quickly as possible to secure the location.
—Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
Instead, look for hardware and fixtures that introduce an element of surprise or a statement-making moment.
—Heather Bien, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for element of surprise
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Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025
The past three years, for instance, have demonstrated that the element of surprise remains an integral part of war.
—Mick Ryan, Foreign Affairs, 21 Feb. 2025
Sage said the tactic has three absolute requirements: the element of surprise, overwhelming power and moving as quickly as possible to secure the location.
—Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
Instead, look for hardware and fixtures that introduce an element of surprise or a statement-making moment.
—Heather Bien, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for element of surprise
Cite this Entry
“Element of surprise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/element%20of%20surprise. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
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