an unfortunate instance

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

From the first page, I liked Tiny Walker, the typically Macalisterian main character: an ex-marine who would have been a hero in the battle of Falluja had he not been dishonorably discharged for failing to corroborate the official story of the rape of a twelve-year-old Iraqi girl and the murder of her and her entire family, an unfortunate instance of miscommunication with local civilians.

The New Yorker

Romney's comments betrayed so much more than an unfortunate instance of momentary tone deafness.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In what must count as a particularly unfortunate instance of a lovers' quarrel, the two finally confront each other on the battlefield, where Maubub prepares to attack his beloved with an army that includes lions and elephants, while Mahliya has mustered "4,000 buffaloes with their horns covered in iron and their necks protected by collars of Chinese steel" – and, aptly, 5,000 wildcats.

The Guardian - Books

These efforts will ensure that you have indeed made an informed decision, and they will also provide you with a support network that can provide mentorship and guidance in the unfortunate instance that this has significant negative implications in the relationship between you and your current advisor.

Science Magazine

Meanwhile, in this unfortunate instance, of such constraints are legends made.

The New York Times

He begins to tell them about the unfortunate instance of miscommunication with local civilians, but leaves Declan out of it.

The New Yorker

However, in this unfortunate instance, prior to reaching hasty conclusions, we suggest HRF registers as a NGO in Gabon as thousand others have done and to refer to the latest rating of the Mo Ibrahim Good Governance index: in fact, Gabon stands first regionally.

The Guardian - Sport

Comparisons have been made between this situation and the unfortunate instance in 2003 when the Army chief of staff, Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, was punished for advising Congress of the enormous effort it would take to defeat and pacify Iraq in any meaningful way.

The New York Times

The findings present a novel view of how fertilization competence may be established in the human oocyte and a means by which certain fertilization failures that occur after conventional clinical IVF can be identified and explained in the unfortunate instance of fertilization arrest at the oolemma.

Reproductive BioMedicine Online

You could be found, your clothes and valuables could be stolen, and a number of ensuing unfortunate instances could arise.

WikiHow

There have been unfortunate instances of nullification.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an unfortunate instance" when you want to describe a specific event as regrettable or unlucky, often implying a degree of unexpectedness or atypicality. For example, "The error in the report was "an unfortunate instance" that we have taken steps to prevent in the future."

Common error

Avoid using "an unfortunate instance" in situations that already convey a strong sense of tragedy or extreme negativity, as it can sound understated or even sarcastic. Choose more emphatic language instead.

Linguistic Context

An unfortunate instance functions as a noun phrase, where 'unfortunate' modifies 'instance'. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English, serving to pinpoint a specific event marked by adversity or bad luck, often softening the impact of harsh news. It allows for a nuanced expression of regret or disappointment within the narrative.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Science & Research

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unfortunate instance" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English that describes a specific, regrettable event. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, noting its use across varied contexts. It's common in News & Media, Science, and Science & Research, suggesting a formal to neutral register. When writing, use it to describe specific events that are regrettable or unlucky, but avoid overuse in overtly dramatic situations. Alternatives include "a regrettable situation" or "an undesirable event", depending on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a regrettable situation

Replaces "unfortunate instance" with a more general term for a negative situation.

an undesirable event

Substitutes "unfortunate" with "undesirable" and "instance" with "event", focusing on the unwanted nature of the occurrence.

a regrettable occurrence

Similar to "a regrettable situation", but uses "occurrence" instead of "situation" or "instance".

a bad episode

Emphasizes the episodic and negative nature of the event.

an unhappy affair

Uses a more formal and somewhat euphemistic term to describe a negative event.

a stroke of bad luck

Focuses on the role of chance or fate in the negative event.

an unwelcome development

Highlights the unexpected and negative impact of the event's unfolding.

a calamitous event

Emphasizes the disastrous nature of the occurrence.

an ill-fated incident

Highlights the unfortunate and doomed nature of the event.

a painful experience

Focuses on the emotional distress caused by the event.

FAQs

What does "an unfortunate instance" mean?

The phrase "an unfortunate instance" refers to a specific occurrence or event that is considered unlucky, regrettable, or undesirable. It implies that the event was not planned or expected and had negative consequences.

How can I use "an unfortunate instance" in a sentence?

You can use "an unfortunate instance" to describe a particular event you regret. For example: "Losing the contract was "a regrettable situation", but we learned from it."

What are some alternatives to "an unfortunate instance"?

Alternatives include "a regrettable situation", "an undesirable event", or "a bad episode". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "unfortunate instance" formal or informal?

"Unfortunate instance" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's suitable for professional writing, news reports, and academic papers, as well as casual conversation. The formality will also vary depending on context of use.