a sequence of bad luck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sequence of bad luck" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of unfortunate events or circumstances that occur in succession. Example: "After losing my job, my car broke down, and then I got sick; it truly felt like a sequence of bad luck."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

McCown has suffered a sequence of bad luck this season, with concussion, a rib injury and now the broken collarbone.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The situation in Richmond in the spring of 1863 was the result of an unusual sequence of bad luck.

Britannica

But a single stroke of extremely bad luck, or an extended sequence of bad-luck events that creates a catastrophic outcome, can terminate the quest.

The New York Times

"It's a combination of bad luck and bad management.

The New York Times

"He had a lifetime of good luck and a moment of bad luck," Alderson said.

The New York Times - Sports

She also experienced a lot of bad luck.

Independent

Was he simply a victim of bad luck?

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's a bit of bad luck".

The Guardian

It's been a string of bad luck for them, almost Kafkaesque bad luck".

The New York Times - Sports

Through a combination of bad luck and bad judgment, the Chancellor has undermined the Tories' credentials on "fairness".

Independent

Smith's story is a chronicle of bad luck.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sequence of bad luck", consider the context. If the events are particularly impactful or grave, using stronger alternatives like "a run of misfortune" may be more fitting. For less severe situations, "a bit of bad luck" may suffice.

Common error

Avoid using "a sequence of bad luck" too frequently in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "a string of misfortunes" or "a series of unfortunate events" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sequence of bad luck" primarily functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI indicates its role in describing a series of unfortunate or adverse happenings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sequence of bad luck" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a series of unfortunate events. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While interchangeable with similar phrases like "a run of misfortune", it carries a slightly more neutral tone. When employing this phrase, consider the context and audience to ensure the most appropriate level of formality and impact. Varying your language with alternatives prevents overuse and maintains reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a run of misfortune

Emphasizes a continuous period of unfavorable events; a more literary alternative.

a streak of unfortunate events

Highlights the consecutive nature of the bad luck, similar to a winning streak but negative.

a chapter of mishaps

Suggests a distinct period marked by minor unfortunate incidents.

a spell of ill fortune

Conveys a temporary period dominated by negative luck or fate.

an unlucky streak

Similar to 'streak of unfortunate events' but slightly more concise.

a series of unfortunate incidents

Focuses on specific events rather than an overall sense of luck.

a cascade of problems

Suggests that problems are tumbling down rapidly and uncontrollably.

a litany of woes

Implies a long and often repetitive list of troubles or sorrows.

hard luck story

Expresses the narrative dimension of continued unfortunate event, implying that the bad luck is so significant that has become a story.

accumulation of misfortunes

Highlights that the final effect is the compounding effect of different misfortunes all together

FAQs

How can I use "a sequence of bad luck" in a sentence?

You can use "a sequence of bad luck" to describe a series of unfortunate events happening one after another. For instance, "The team suffered "a sequence of bad luck" with injuries.".

What is a more formal way to say "a sequence of bad luck"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a series of unfortunate events", "a period of ill fortune", or "a run of misfortune".

Is it correct to say "an sequence of bad luck" instead of "a sequence of bad luck"?

No, the correct article to use before "sequence" is "a", not "an", because "sequence" begins with a consonant sound. Therefore, ""a sequence of bad luck"" is the grammatically correct form.

What's the difference between "a sequence of bad luck" and "a string of bad luck"?

While both phrases convey a series of unfortunate events, "a sequence of bad luck" implies a specific order or connection between the events, whereas "a string of bad luck" simply emphasizes the continuous nature of the bad luck without necessarily implying a relationship between the events.