a stroke of fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stroke of fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a sudden and unexpected good luck or fortunate event. Example sentence: “My winning the lottery was a stroke of fortune!”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Literature

General Communication

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

There was a stroke of fortune to Harry Wilson putting Derby ahead with what looked a cross rather than shot; it came off Jutkiewicz.

The Guardian - Sport

By a stroke of fortune, the door on the cattle train opened on the Vilna platform and she simply walked off.

The New York Times

Tottenham enjoyed a stroke of fortune on the opening goal, when Moussa Sissoko's cross flicked off Dan Butler to wrong-foot the goalkeeper, Joe Day.

The Guardian - Sport

Getting the extraordinary physical specimen of Arnold Schwarzenegger for the lead was a stroke of genius and a stroke of fortune.

The Guardian - Film

On 32 minutes, albeit with a stroke of fortune when Agüero miskicked a shot, the ball looped free, and Forlán, moving on instinct, side-footed the first goal.

The New York Times - Sports

As with the failed London attack, the explosives and gas canisters which appeared to be in the Jeep did not detonate, a stroke of fortune that may again have saved the lives of hundreds.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Flannery O'Connor, 'A Stroke of Good Fortune' 33.

The Guardian - Books

It was a stroke of good fortune for the monument.

The New York Times - Books

For City, however, this was a stroke of good fortune that invigorated a raucous crowd.

The Guardian - Sport

Through a stroke of good fortune, he has a hand transplant.

The New York Times - Books

And in a stroke of good fortune, that is the topic for Friday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stroke of fortune" to describe a positive outcome that was largely unexpected or due to chance, rather than deliberate planning or skill. Consider its impact on the narrative or situation you are describing.

Common error

Avoid using "a stroke of fortune" when success is primarily the result of hard work, skill, or strategic planning. This can diminish the effort and dedication involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stroke of fortune" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies an instance of unexpected good luck or a fortunate event. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stroke of fortune" is a noun phrase used to describe an unexpected event that leads to a positive outcome. As verified by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in News & Media and Sports reporting. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure that its use accurately reflects the role of luck versus skill or planning. Related phrases, such as "a lucky break" or "a twist of fate", can provide alternative ways to express the same idea with slightly different nuances. Use "a stroke of fortune" to depict events where chance played a significant role in the overall positive results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A lucky break

Suggests a sudden and advantageous opportunity, emphasizing the timing and benefit.

A fortunate turn of events

Highlights the positive change in circumstances, focusing on the overall favorable outcome.

A twist of fate

Highlights the unexpected nature of the fortunate event, similar to a sudden change in circumstances.

A piece of luck

Emphasizes the role of chance in the positive outcome, focusing on the luck aspect.

A happy accident

Focuses on the unintentional but positive nature of the event, emphasizing its unexpected benefit.

A godsend

Highlights the desperately needed and beneficial nature of the fortunate event.

A serendipitous occasion

Focuses on the happy and accidental nature of the fortunate event.

An act of providence

Implies divine intervention or a higher power influencing the positive outcome.

A boon from the heavens

Emphasizes the unexpected and generous nature of the good fortune, often with a sense of grandeur.

A fluke occurrence

Indicates that the fortunate event was a random and improbable happening.

FAQs

How can I use "a stroke of fortune" in a sentence?

You can use "a stroke of fortune" to describe an unexpected event that leads to a positive outcome. For example, "Winning the competition was "a stroke of fortune", as I hadn't expected to win."

What's the difference between "a stroke of fortune" and "a stroke of luck"?

Both phrases refer to unexpected good luck. "A stroke of fortune" often implies a more significant or impactful event, while "a stroke of luck" can refer to minor instances of good luck. In most contexts, they are interchangeable.

What can I say instead of "a stroke of fortune"?

You can use alternatives like "a lucky break", "a twist of fate", or "a fortunate turn of events" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a stroke of good fortune" or "a stroke of fortune"?

Both are correct and commonly used. "A stroke of good fortune" emphasizes the positive nature of the event, while "a stroke of fortune" is a more general expression of unexpected luck. "A stroke of good fortune" is also an acceptable alternative.