a regrettable occurrence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a regrettable occurrence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an event or situation that is unfortunate or causes disappointment. Example: "The cancellation of the event was a regrettable occurrence that affected many attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"While a single death of an ICE detainee is a serious matter and a regrettable occurrence," Ms. Nantel said, "it is important to review all the facts".

The New York Times

There is a temptation to draw a line under the Iraq war and to write it off as a regrettable occurrence, best consigned to history.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

That's a regrettable situation".

The New York Times

"This was a regrettable incident.

Independent

That's a regrettable motive.

The New York Times

The snowstorm was a regrettable incident.

The New York Times

Outside America there is a regrettable degree of public prurience.

The Economist

But there has been a regrettable downsizing of aspirations.

The New York Times

FOR most of us, banking is a regrettable necessity.

The Economist

(All meals begin with a regrettable green salad).

The New York Times - Sports

· A regrettable Oriental number entitled "Shanghai-Dee-Ho".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a regrettable occurrence" in formal writing or when aiming for a tone of understated disappointment or regret. It's suitable for describing events that are unfortunate but not necessarily catastrophic.

Common error

Avoid using "a regrettable occurrence" in casual conversation; it sounds overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "that's too bad" or "that's a shame" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a regrettable occurrence" functions as a noun phrase, serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It encapsulates an event or situation that is considered unfortunate or undesirable. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through its examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a regrettable occurrence" is a noun phrase used to describe an event that is considered unfortunate. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in formal contexts, particularly within news and media. While semantically similar to phrases like ""an unfortunate incident"" or ""a lamentable event"", it carries a slightly more formal tone and emphasizes a sense of regret. When writing, it's important to consider the audience and context to determine if a simpler, more casual expression would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unfortunate incident

Replaces "occurrence" with "incident", which is a slightly more specific and common term.

a lamentable event

Substitutes "regrettable" with "lamentable", conveying a stronger sense of sorrow.

a regrettable situation

Replaces "occurrence" with "situation", broadening the scope to include ongoing states.

an unwelcome development

Uses "unwelcome" to describe the negative reception of the event.

an undesirable circumstance

Emphasizes the negative aspects of the situation using "undesirable".

a source of disappointment

Focuses on the emotional impact of the event rather than the event itself.

a cause for regret

Highlights the feeling of regret associated with the event.

an unfortunate turn of events

Refers to the event as a change in circumstances for the worse.

a setback

Implies the event has hindered progress or caused delay.

an adverse incident

Uses "adverse" to specifically describe the harmful or unfavorable nature of the event.

FAQs

How can I use "a regrettable occurrence" in a sentence?

You can use "a regrettable occurrence" to describe an event that causes disappointment or sorrow. For example, "The cancellation of the conference was "a regrettable occurrence" for many attendees".

What are some alternatives to "a regrettable occurrence"?

Alternatives include "an unfortunate incident", "a lamentable event", or "a source of disappointment", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a regrettable occurrence" formal or informal?

"A regrettable occurrence" is generally considered a formal expression. In more casual settings, phrases like "that's a shame" or "that's too bad" might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "a regrettable occurrence" instead of "an unfortunate event"?

"A regrettable occurrence" and "an unfortunate event" are quite similar, but "a regrettable occurrence" may emphasize the feeling of regret associated with the event, whereas "an unfortunate event" simply highlights the bad luck or negative outcome. Consider the context and which aspect you want to emphasize.