I unfortunately

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I unfortunately" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a statement that expresses regret, sorrow, or a situation that is unfortunate. For example: "I unfortunately cannot attend the meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I unfortunately speak from experience.

The New York Times - Style

"I, unfortunately, never made Chris do that".

The New York Times

When that will happen, I unfortunately don't know".

The New York Times

I unfortunately can't celebrate it being on the Grammys.

The New Yorker

I unfortunately have nothing else to do here.

The New York Times

I unfortunately ran into a bad razor clam.

The New York Times

"But I, unfortunately, do not have any children," she said.

The New York Times

I unfortunately was in St . Louisand missed it.

The New Yorker

I unfortunately have been almost bizarrely committed to not archiving anything.

The New York Times

"I unfortunately have a clear insight into how dishonest people can be.

Independent

I unfortunately don't get into 'matches.' I fight for a living.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I unfortunately" to preface a statement expressing regret or an undesirable outcome, softening the impact of negative information.

Common error

Avoid using "I unfortunately" excessively in highly formal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly apologetic or insincere. Consider stronger, more direct alternatives depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

"I unfortunately" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb within a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it expresses the speaker's regret or disappointment regarding the action or state being described. Examples show its use in various contexts to soften negative news or express personal feelings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I unfortunately" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that expresses regret or disappointment. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. While considered neutral in register, it is advisable to avoid overuse in overly formal settings. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that it accurately reflects your intended sentiment and contributes to the overall tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unfortunately, I

Reorders the phrase, placing emphasis on the unfortunate circumstance.

I am sorry to say

Expresses sorrow or regret about a situation.

Regrettably, I

A more formal synonym expressing regret.

I regret to say

More formal and direct in expressing regret.

I am disappointed to

Directly expresses the speaker's feelings of disappointment.

It is unfortunate that I

Shifts the focus to the unfortunate nature of the situation itself.

Much to my regret

Emphasizes the speaker's feelings of regret about the situation.

I am afraid that

Indicates reluctance to convey bad news.

I am saddened to report

Formally conveys feelings of sadness and regret.

To my dismay

Highlights the speaker's disappointment.

FAQs

How can I use "I unfortunately" in a sentence?

Use "I unfortunately" to express regret or disappointment before stating a fact. For example, "I unfortunately cannot attend the meeting" indicates your inability to attend and conveys a sense of regret.

What are some alternatives to using "I unfortunately"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "I regret to say", "I am sorry to say", or simply "unfortunately" followed by your statement.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "I unfortunately"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The adverb "unfortunately" modifies the verb in the sentence and indicates the speaker's feeling about the situation.

What's the difference between "I unfortunately" and simply saying "unfortunately"?

Adding "I" personalizes the statement and emphasizes the speaker's perspective or involvement in the situation. Saying only "unfortunately" makes a more general statement about the situation itself.