a very unfortunate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very unfortunate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is regrettable or causes distress. Example: "It is a very unfortunate circumstance that we could not meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Unfortunately mistakes happen and this happened to be a very unfortunate time for this kind of mistake".

The New York Times

A very unfortunate experience.

The New Yorker

"It's a very unfortunate incident".

The New York Times

Mrs. Keets had a very unfortunate habit.

The New Yorker

It was a very unfortunate time".

The New York Times

"It's a very unfortunate situation.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a very unfortunate bit of timing".

The New York Times

It is a very unfortunate incident".

The Guardian

I think that's a very unfortunate development".

The Guardian

It was a very unfortunate mistake".

The Guardian

"Iraq is a very unfortunate situation," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a very unfortunate" to express sympathy or regret in formal and informal settings. It is appropriate when acknowledging mistakes, accidents, or sad situations.

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid using "a very unfortunate" too frequently in casual conversations. Simpler expressions of regret or sympathy might be more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very unfortunate" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe something as regrettable or causing distress. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a very unfortunate" is a commonly used and grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to express regret or sympathy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It finds its primary context in news and media, where it's used to describe regrettable events or situations. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to professional registers, and writers should be mindful of overuse in casual conversation. Alternatives such as "deeply regrettable" or "truly lamentable" can provide variety. By understanding its nuances, writers can effectively use "a very unfortunate" to convey appropriate emotions and maintain the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a terribly regrettable

Similar to deeply regrettable, but with a stronger emphasis.

a deeply regrettable

Emphasizes the feeling of regret associated with the unfortunate event or situation.

a truly lamentable

Highlights the sorrowful nature of the event or situation.

a decidedly unlucky

Focuses on the element of bad luck or chance involved.

a sincerely ill-fated

Suggests the event was destined for failure or misfortune.

a genuinely distressing

Stresses the emotional impact and upset caused by the situation.

a remarkably unfavorable

Emphasizes the negative or adverse nature of the circumstances.

a seriously adverse

Highlights the damaging or harmful effects of the circumstance.

a highly inauspicious

Suggests that the situation bodes ill for the future.

a supremely disappointing

Highlights the feeling of unmet expectations and letdown.

FAQs

How can I use "a very unfortunate" in a sentence?

You can use "a very unfortunate" to describe a situation, event, or characteristic that is regrettable. For instance, "It was "a very unfortunate mistake" that led to the project's failure."

What phrases are similar to "a very unfortunate"?

Alternatives include "deeply regrettable", "truly lamentable", or "decidedly unlucky" depending on the specific context.

Is "a very unfortunate" formal or informal?

"A very unfortunate" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it leans slightly towards the formal side. In very casual settings, simpler phrases might be preferred.

What's the difference between "a very unfortunate" and "unfortunate"?

Adding "very" intensifies the degree of regret or negativity associated with the unfortunate situation. "A very unfortunate" implies a stronger sense of disappointment or sadness than simply "unfortunate".