Definitions

unfortunate

[uhn-fawr-chuh-nit] / ʌnˈfɔr tʃə nɪt /

ADJECTIVE

unlucky, bad

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adverse damaging deplorable disastrous inappropriate inauspicious lamentable regrettable unlucky untoward

STRONG

desperate doomed poor sad

WEAK

afflicted broken burdened calamitous cursed destitute forsaken hapless hopeless ill-fated ill-starred in a bad way infelicitous inopportune jinxed luckless out of luck pained ruined ruinous shattered star-crossed stricken troubled unbecoming unfavorable unhappy unpropitious unprosperous unsuccessful unsuitable wretched

Antonyms

STRONGEST

auspicious blessed favorable fortunate good happy helpful lucky proper suitable

STRONG

hopeful

WEAK

timely

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"But it is just so unfortunate, and I am hoping that in the next four weeks, things can be turned around."

From BBC • May 15, 2026

These are unfortunate examples of how AI can lead to mistreatment of people because of technical flaws as well as misplaced human faith in the technology’s supposed objectivity.

From Salon • May 12, 2026

Lee said the incident is especially unfortunate, given the good work VCH does.

From Los Angeles Times • May 9, 2026

There is a way to share this unfortunate news that conveys your remorse and acknowledges that it may increase the cost of your friends’ trip.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

Gran kissed a finger and touched the tiniest mole on the back of Ella's neck, a kidney bean-shaped spot that resembled a tiny birthmark to most, or an unfortunate puffy tattoo to others.

From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton

Vocabulary lists containing unfortunate

Oh, No! Synonyms for "Bad"

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Vocabulary from the Songs of "The Little Mermaid"

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Schooled

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