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.

Factories seemed poised for a rebound this year, making higher input costs an unfortunate setback.

From The Wall Street Journal

The White House called the decision “deeply unfortunate.”

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s a heavy time, and it’s unfortunate,” Paul continued.

From Salon

The book’s lack of discipline is unfortunate because Mr. Ariosto’s enthusiasm for space is evident.

From The Wall Street Journal

The timing is both coincidental and unfortunate but he is due back after the international break.

From BBC