expression, noun
unforeseen circumstances; contingency; unexpected situation
A formal set phrase used when referring to events that cannot be predicted or prepared for, often in risk management, legal, or emergency contexts.
不測の事態に備えて、保険に加入しておくべきだ。
You should take out insurance in case of unforeseen circumstances.
不測の事態が発生した場合、直ちに本部に連絡してください。
If an unexpected situation occurs, please contact headquarters immediately.
A compound of 不測 (unforeseeable) and 事態 (situation). The phrase is a straightforward Sino-Japanese construction with no irregular etymology.