A2adverb5K

Fortunately

UK /["/ˈfɔːtʃənətli/"]/US /["/ˈfɔːrtʃənətli/"]/

Definition

by good luck

In simple words: Luckily or by good luck.

Examples

  • I was late, but fortunately the meeting hadn't started.
  • The documents fortunately survived the fire.
  • Fortunately or unfortunately, those times have passed.
  • Fortunately for him, he was very soon offered another job.

Usage notes

Use 'fortunately' to express a positive outcome. It can make statements sound more formal. Avoid using it in casual speeches or when expressing a negative outcome.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'fort' — a strong place where good luck protects you.

Collocations

  • fortunately for us
  • fortunately enough
  • fortunately they arrived

Synonyms

  • luckily
  • propitiously
  • blessedly
  • favourably

Antonyms

  • unfortunately

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'unfortunately' which indicates a negative outcome.
  • Using it to describe a personal situation instead of an outcome.
  • Placing it incorrectly in the sentence, e.g., at the end.