more than (someone/something) bargained for

something in addition to what was expected.

The pain caused by the operation was much more than I bargained for.

Usage notes: often used with get:

Sarah was looking for a challenge, but she may have gotten more than she bargained for in this job.

• get a rocket
• get around
• get around something
• get around to
• get around to doing something
• get arse in gear
• get a second wind
• get ass
• get ass somewhere
• get away from it all
• get away scot-free
• get away with
• get away with murder
• get away with something
• Get away with you!
• get a word in edgeways
• get a word in edgewise
• get back on track
• get back up
• get bearings
• get behind
• get behind someone
• get behind something
• get behind the wheel
• get bent out of shape