unfortunately

American  

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

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 British  

/ ʌnˈfɔːtʃənɪtlɪ /

adverb

1. (sentence modifier) it is regrettable that; unluckily

---

Etymology

Origin of unfortunately

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

Example Sentences

“At some point, I have to step back so that he can learn and he can make his own decisions, and unfortunately, he’s learning the hard way. But I’m okay with it.”

From Los Angeles Times

"The pain from four years ago was so much that we wanted to give it another go. We gave ourselves a chance but unfortunately we've not got there again."

From BBC

"Finally, they are making their way back on shore where, unfortunately, a lot of them are already dead or dying as they approach the coastlines and get into rougher coastal waters."

From BBC

"The Turkish authorities are unfortunately continuing their efforts to further tarnish the country’s already grim record, where 27 journalists were imprisoned last year," RSF's Onderoglu said.

From Barron's

I enjoyed it, but this one was too good to turn down, unfortunately!

From BBC

Related Words

• sadly