When unforeseen things happen, it can be difficult to find the right words to describe the experience. "Sudden misfortune" is a commonly used phrase, but there are many other synonyms for it. "Adversity" implies a challenge to overcome, while "calamity" suggests a severe or tragic outcome. "Catastrophe" is an extreme form of sudden misfortune, often involving widespread damage or destruction. "Hardship" and "distress" convey a sense of emotional or physical strain. "Misadventure" describes an unexpected turn of events that leads to an unfavorable outcome. No matter which word you choose, they all convey the sense of an unwelcome event that causes discomfort or pain.