A2adverb 2K

Unfortunately

UK /["/ʌnˈfɔːtʃənətli/"]/ US /["/ʌnˈfɔːrtʃənətli/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used to say that a particular situation or fact makes you sad or disappointed, or gets you into a difficult position

Listen to definition

In simple words: sadly or regrettably

Examples

• Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the meeting.
• I can't make it, unfortunately.
• Unfortunately for him, the police had been informed and were waiting outside.
• It won't be finished for a few weeks. Unfortunately!
• We wanted to have only films from Spain at this year's festival. Unfortunately, however, there weren't enough good ones.

Usage notes

Use 'unfortunately' to express bad news or a negative outcome. Suitable for both spoken and written English, but avoid in very casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Imagine saying 'unfortunate' while frowning.

Collocations

• unfortunately, it seems
• unfortunately, we have
• unfortunately, there was

Synonyms

• sadly
• regrettably
• unluckily
• woefully

Antonyms

• fortunately
• luckily

Common mistakes

• 'Unfortuately' is a common misspelling.
• Sometimes confused with 'unluckily', which has a similar meaning but is less formal.
• Used in positive contexts by mistake.