Synonyms for

Unlucky

Verb / ʌˈnlʌki: / Another word for unlucky — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having or bringing bad luck; unfortunate

Synonyms & similar words

illfated illomened illstarred luckless lucky doomed unfortunate jinxed cursed hapless inauspicious ill-fated doomed ill-starred misfortunate unpropitious disastrous unhappy tragic unsuccessful untoward catastrophic fatal unwelcome unfavorable miserable

Synonyms by register

Formal

unfortunate ill-fated hapless disastrous

Informal

jinxed out of luck down on your luck bum luck

Literary

star-crossed ill-starred doomed

Antonyms

lucky fortunate successful blessed auspicious favorable

Common collocations

  • unlucky charm
  • unlucky break
  • unlucky day
  • unlucky streak
  • unlucky accident
  • unlucky draw

Word family

noun unluckiness
adverb unluckily

Usage note

While 'unlucky' can describe a single event, it often implies a pattern or tendency of misfortune. It is generally neutral in connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The black cat brought me bad luck and I felt unlucky all day.
  2. She was unlucky to get a flat tire on the way to her job interview.
  3. The team had an unlucky season and lost every game.
  4. He felt so unlucky when he missed the last train home.
  5. The rainy weather made the picnic an unlucky event.

Quotes

  • I'm unlucky in cards but lucky in love.
  • Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.
  • Some people are born lucky, some are born unlucky, and some are born to be leaders.

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