unfortunate

The word “unfortunate” means having bad luck; suffering misfortune. In plain terms, unlucky, or (more mildly) regrettable and not ideal.

“Unfortunate” is pronounced uhn-FAW-chuh-niht (/ʌnˈfɔɹ.t͡ʃə.nɪt/ in IPA).

Here is “unfortunate” used in a sentence: “An unfortunate series of events left them stranded overnight.”

“Unfortunate” is an adjective.

“Unfortunate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Unfortunate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having bad luck; suffering misfortune.

'Unlucky' focuses on bad luck in a particular event or moment, such as an unlucky bounce of the ball. 'Unfortunate' is broader, covering both bad luck and things that are regrettable or unsuitable. So 'unfortunate' can describe a situation, a choice, or a person's wider misfortune.

The direct opposite is 'fortunate,' meaning lucky or favoured by good luck. 'Lucky' and 'happy' can also serve as antonyms depending on the sentence. Where 'unfortunate' means regrettable, its opposite may be 'suitable' or 'welcome.'

Use 'unfortunate' for both bad luck and things that are simply undesirable, as in 'an unfortunate accident' or 'an unfortunate choice of words.' Use 'regrettable' when you specifically mean something that deserves regret or apology. 'Regrettable' is more formal and carries a sense of fault or sorrow.

'Unfortunate' is fairly neutral and works in both everyday and formal writing. It is often chosen in polite or careful contexts to soften bad news, as in 'an unfortunate delay.' This makes it common in business and official communication.