Synonyms for

Unfortunate

Verb / ʌˈnfɔ:rtʃʌnʌt / / ʌˈnfɔ:rtʃu:nʌt / Another word for unfortunate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having bad luck or unfavorable circumstances

Synonyms & similar words

auspicious unfortunateperson fortunate inauspicious unlucky hapless ill-fated unhappy miserable wretched disastrous tragic catastrophic unpropitious inauspicious unfavorable distressing regrettable deplorable pitiful pathetic sad gloomy doomed

Synonyms by register

Formal

regrettable deplorable lamentable unhappy

Informal

too bad bummer tough luck a shame

Literary

ill-fated hapless woeful

Antonyms

fortunate lucky blessed auspicious providential happy

Common collocations

  • unfortunate accident
  • unfortunate event
  • unfortunate consequence
  • unfortunate situation
  • unfortunate remark
  • unfortunate timing
  • unfortunate turn of events

Word family

noun misfortune
adjective unfortunate
adverb unfortunately

Usage note

Often used to express sympathy or regret. Can sometimes sound a bit understated or formal in very casual conversation.

Example sentences

  1. It was unfortunate that it rained on our picnic day.
  2. It was unfortunate that the dog got loose and ran away.
  3. It was unfortunate that the cake burned in the oven.
  4. It was unfortunate that the team lost the game.
  5. It was unfortunate that the flight was delayed.

Quotes

  • The unfortunate, it seems, is the fate of man. - Albert Camus
  • Nothing is more unfortunate than the person who has never failed, never faced adversity, never tasted disappointment, and never found out what they're made of. - Mark Manson
  • It is unfortunate, considering that enthusiasm moves the world, that so few enthusiasts can be trusted to speak the truth. - Arthur James Balfour

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