Time Warner executives also said the announcement surprised them.

Today's announcement surprised many analysts, because both companies had denied speculation last week that the deal was unraveling.

"I am sure that this announcement will surprise no one here tonight," he said.

The announcement that the state would hold the money for a year surprised New York City officials.

The announcement surprised everyone, in that the Pope did not consult with advisers beforehand.

His announcement had surprised her, even to the point of erasing her fear.

The announcement surprised Wall Street and the computer industry.

The announcement itself did not surprise the bond market, since economists had been expecting the move for some time.

But he declined to answer any questions about his own political future, other than to say that his forthcoming announcement "might surprise you."

The announcement surprised the gallery, which included at least one person who was ready to testify for the defense.