A bolt from the blue

Definitions

• unexpected event or news
  Describing something that happens suddenly and unexpectedly, often causing shock or surprise

• out of the ordinary
  Referring to something that is unusual, uncommon, or unexpected in a given situation or context

• shock or surprise
  Expressing the feeling of being caught off guard or taken aback by an unexpected occurrence or development

Examples of A bolt from the blue

• Jane's promotion came as a bolt from the blue.

  The phrase "a bolt from the blue" is used to describe an unexpected and sudden event or news. In this example, Jane's promotion came as a surprise to her, as she was not expecting it.

• The news of his resignation was a bolt from the blue for his colleagues.

  The phrase "a bolt from the blue" can also be used to describe an unexpected event or news for a group of people. In this example, the news of his resignation came as a surprise to his colleagues.

• The unexpected victory was a bolt from the blue for the underdog team.

  The phrase "a bolt from the blue" can also be used to describe an unexpected event or outcome in a particular situation. In this example, the underdog team's victory came as a surprise to everyone, as they were not expected to win.

• The sudden storm was a bolt from the blue for the hikers.

  The phrase "a bolt from the blue" can also be used to describe an unexpected event or situation in a particular context. In this example, the sudden storm caught the hikers off guard, as they were not expecting it.

• The announcement of the merger was a bolt from the blue for the employees.

  The phrase "a bolt from the blue" can also be used to describe an unexpected event or news in a particular setting. In this example, the announcement of the merger came as a surprise to the employees, as they were not expecting it.

Conclusion

The idiom "a bolt from the blue" is commonly used to describe a sudden and unexpected event or piece of news that takes someone by surprise. It can also be used to express the feeling of shock or surprise that comes with such an occurrence. Additionally, the phrase can be used to refer to something that is out of the ordinary or unexpected in a given situation.

In everyday conversation, the idiom is often used to emphasize the unexpected nature of something, especially when it is seen as negative or unwelcome. It can also be used in a more positive sense, to describe a pleasant surprise or an unexpected stroke of luck.

Origin of "A bolt from the blue"

The origin of the idiom "a bolt from the blue" can be traced back to the late 1800s. The phrase is thought to have originated from the literal meaning of a bolt of lightning appearing out of a clear blue sky. This sudden and unexpected occurrence would have been seen as a divine or supernatural event, and the phrase was likely used to describe any similarly surprising event or news.

Over time, the phrase evolved to become a common idiom used in everyday language. It is now commonly used to express the idea of something unexpected happening without warning, and the phrase has become a staple in English vocabulary.