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

This is thanks to the new moon, which cuts down on natural light — though unfortunately not L.A.’s widespread light pollution.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“But unfortunately, or fortunately, human beings are just far more complicated than that.”

Read more on Salon

Another one of my favorite restaurants right now is Bar Etoile on Western, but unfortunately, it’s closed on Sundays.

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"However, the closures will unfortunately lead to a number of job losses," a spokesperson added.

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"We tell the families we have begun but unfortunately it will take years. In every Syrian village, there might be missing persons."

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Related Words

• sadly