fortuitous
Fortuitous (adj) means happening by chance, especially in a lucky or fortunate way. Example: “Their meeting on the train turned out to be fortuitous — they later became business partners.”
How to use fortuitous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA happy accident — something good that happens unexpectedly.
Strictly, "fortuitous" just means "by chance" and doesn't have to be lucky, but in modern use it almost always implies a happy outcome.
Word forms
more fortuitous comparative, most fortuitous superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Their meeting on the train turned out to be _____ — they later became business partners.
Etymology
From Latin fortuitus, "happening by chance."
Related words
Rhymes for fortuitous
See all rhymes for fortuitous →Frequently asked questions
What does “fortuitous” mean?
The word “fortuitous” means happening by chance, especially in a lucky or fortunate way. In plain terms, a happy accident — something good that happens unexpectedly.
How do you pronounce “fortuitous”?
“Fortuitous” is pronounced faw-TYOO-ih-tuhs (/foɹˈt͡ʃu.ɪ.tɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “fortuitous” in a sentence?
Here is “fortuitous” used in a sentence: “Their meeting on the train turned out to be fortuitous — they later became business partners.”
What part of speech is “fortuitous”?
“Fortuitous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “fortuitous” come from?
The word “fortuitous” comes from Latin. From Latin fortuitus, "happening by chance.".
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