意想不到 yìxiǎng-búdào unexpected
unexpected; previously unimagined
How to remember 意想不到: 意 idea + 想 think about + 不 not + 到 arrive = unexpected.
Characters
How it is used
- 'Unexpected / never imagined' - 收到了意想不到的效果 (shōudào le yìxiǎng-búdào de xiàoguǒ) it produced an unexpected effect.
- Usually modifies a following noun (effect, result, surprise) and often flags a pleasant or striking surprise.
- Near 出乎意料 (chūhū yìliào, contrary to expectation); 意想不到 emphasizes 'beyond what one could even imagine.'