noun
surprise attack; catching off guard
Refers to an unexpected attack or action that catches someone unprepared. Can be used literally for military or physical attacks, or figuratively for sudden visits, questions, or events that take someone by surprise.
敵の不意打ちに遭って、部隊は大混乱に陥った。
The unit fell into great confusion after being hit by a surprise attack from the enemy.
彼
His sudden question was like a surprise attack.
奇襲 is a more formal military term for a surprise attack or raid, often used in strategic contexts. 不意打ち is broader and can be used for everyday surprises.
だまし討ち implies deception or trickery leading to an attack, whereas 不意打ち focuses on the unexpected timing without necessarily involving deceit.
Compound of 不意 (ふい, 'unexpected') and 打ち (うち, 'strike'). The kanji 打ち is standard; the rare form 討ち emphasizes attacking an enemy, while 撃ち suggests shooting.