a fortunate instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fortunate instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific occurrence or situation that is considered lucky or beneficial. Example: "Finding a $20 bill on the ground was a fortunate instance that brightened my day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

moved most of her retirement savings into cash– with hindsight, a fortunate instance of panicking.

Forbes

As a project progresses through appropriate clinical trials, a fortunate instance may arise in which the drug molecule may show promise and is therefore a candidate for further registration and commercialization at a larger scale.

How to Develop Robust Solid Oral Dosage Forms from Conception to Post-Approval

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

That said, I'm in a fortunate position, and have been able to eliminate the parts that don't agree with me — the picture-taking, for instance.

The New Yorker

A fortunate coincidence, perhaps.

The Economist

A fortunate man.

The New York Times - Health

TAL is a fortunate survivor.

The New York Times

"It was a fortunate bounce".

The New York Times - Sports

John Harbison is a fortunate exception.

The New York Times - Arts

"It was a fortunate discovery".

The New York Times

"We are a fortunate people".

The New York Times

This is a fortunate circumstance.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fortunate instance" to specifically highlight a single, lucky occurrence rather than describing a general state of being. It adds a touch of formality to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a fortunate instance" in overly casual contexts. Simpler phrases like "lucky break" or "happy coincidence" might be more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fortunate instance" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "fortunate" modifies the noun "instance". It describes a specific event or occurrence that is considered lucky or beneficial. Ludwig confirms this usage with examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fortunate instance" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a specific, beneficial occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples from news and scientific sources. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "lucky break", it adds a touch of formality. Use it to emphasize the positive nature of a particular event, but avoid overusing it in casual contexts. Remember that, because the phrase is not very common, you should always consider related phrases like "a happy coincidence" and others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lucky event

Replaces "fortunate instance" with more common synonyms for both adjectives and nouns; "lucky" for "fortunate" and "event" for "instance".

a favorable occurrence

Substitutes "fortunate" with "favorable" and "instance" with "occurrence", maintaining a formal tone.

a happy coincidence

Emphasizes the accidental and positive nature of the situation, replacing "fortunate" with "happy" and "instance" with "coincidence".

a stroke of luck

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey the idea of unexpected good fortune.

a serendipitous moment

Highlights the element of chance discovery or accidental good fortune.

an advantageous situation

Focuses on the benefits derived from the situation, using "advantageous" in place of "fortunate".

a beneficial circumstance

Emphasizes the helpful nature of the situation, using "beneficial" in place of "fortunate".

a propitious occasion

Employs more formal and less common vocabulary to describe the favorable timing of the event.

a golden opportunity

Highlights the potential for great success or reward, rather than just general good fortune.

a piece of good luck

Simple alteration of phrase swapping "instance" with more common alternative.

FAQs

How can I use "a fortunate instance" in a sentence?

Use "a fortunate instance" to describe a specific, beneficial occurrence or situation. For example, "Finding a parking spot downtown was "a fortunate instance" that saved us time and frustration."

What are some alternatives to "a fortunate instance"?

You can use alternatives like "a lucky event", "a favorable occurrence", or "a happy coincidence" depending on the context.

Is "a fortunate instance" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "a fortunate instance" isn't as common as other phrases expressing luck or good fortune. Simpler alternatives might be preferred for everyday conversation.

When is it best to use "a fortunate instance" instead of "lucky break"?

"A fortunate instance" is more formal and specific, suitable for describing a particular event. "Lucky break" is more informal and general, often used to describe an unexpected opportunity or positive turn of events.