Surprise Victories

noun a word (other than a pronoun) used to identify any of a class of people, places, or things

adverb a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb

preposition a word governing, and usually preceding, a noun or pronoun and expressing a relation to another word or element in the clause

• Against all expectations, the underdog team managed to win the championship.
• Can you believe it? Against expectations, she aced the exam!
• I was totally shocked when, against all odds, he got the job.
• The plant survived the harsh winter, against all expectations, and bloomed beautifully in spring.