unfortunately

[ uhn-fawr-chuh-nit-lee ]

adverb

1. it is unfortunate that:

   Unfortunately, our flight was delayed for several hours.

2. in a way or to a degree that is unfortunate or unlucky:

   The project was unfortunately placed on hold until further notice.

3. in a way that is regrettable or unsuitable to the situation:

   Thank you for your comment, and I apologize for my unfortunately worded statement.

unfortunately

/ ʌnˈfɔːtʃənɪtlɪ /

adverb

1. sentence modifier it is regrettable that; unluckily

Word History and Origins

Origin of unfortunately¹

First recorded in 1540–50; unfortunate ( def ) + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

“We are — I guess fortunately and unfortunately — the biggest player in the county,” said Stephen Watson, the executive director of the council.

From Los Angeles Times

“Even if air defence works well, drone or missile debris falls on the city. It causes fires, damage and unfortunately sometimes victims,” he explained.

From BBC

The trust said the patient waiting the longest required a bespoke placement that had been sourced on two separate occasions and unfortunately had not been able to proceed due to change in circumstances.

From BBC

That's why Democrats lamely asking people to turn down the temperature won't work, though it can, unfortunately, give cover to fascist leaders by falsely seeding hope they could be coaxed to see reason.

From Salon

The Ministry of Justice said: "After thorough consideration, we have unfortunately found no legal basis for the Lord Chancellor to ask the independent Parole Board to reconsider its decision to release Jeffrey Gafoor."

From BBC

Related Words

• sadly