Bargain for Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Unforeseen Situations The phrase often describes situations that occur beyond what was expected or planned. She didn't bargain for a surprise test in class. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Surprise It is usually used for negative or challenging unexpected situations, not positive ones. He hadn't bargained for such heavy traffic on the road. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact Can express a sense of frustration or annoyance at the unexpected. I never bargained for ending up working late again.