an unfortunate time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unfortunate time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is considered negative or problematic in some context. Example: "The project was launched during an unfortunate time, coinciding with the economic downturn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Discussions

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

And it was an unfortunate time.

The Guardian - Sport

Historically, libraries have had an unfortunate time in the city.

The Guardian

"This is an unfortunate time to run aground".

The New Yorker

"It's an unfortunate time for England, because I know how that can affect a team firsthand".

The New York Times

And, entertaining though it has been, this was an unfortunate time to have an election.

The Economist

The formative weeks of the preseason seemed an unfortunate time for Williams to sit out.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"This strike comes at a most unfortunate time," Mr. Ventura, an independent, said.

The New York Times

As a public persona since at least the 80s, sharing a name with Trump has long carried certain associations, but his latest iteration as a racist, fear-mongering yam makes 2016 an especially unfortunate time to be named Donald Trump.

Vice

"They're plowing big money into a good investment at a desperately unfortunate time," says Sones.

Forbes

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

The New York Times

According to historian Lewis L. Gould, Senate Republican Minority Leader, Charles McNary of Oregon, reportedly said in August 1933: "To oppose the president now in a purely partisan spirit would be rocking the boat at a particularly unfortunate time".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unfortunate time", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the situation. For instance, it's fitting when describing events negatively impacted by timing or circumstance.

Common error

Avoid using "an unfortunate time" in situations that warrant stronger, more descriptive language. Overusing it can dilute the impact of more significant misfortunes; instead, use specific adjectives that really convey the gravity of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unfortunate time" functions as a noun phrase acting as an object, complement, or adverbial modifier, indicating a specific period characterized by unfavorable circumstances. Ludwig AI examples confirm its usage in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Sports

15%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unfortunate time" is a versatile phrase used to describe periods marked by unfavorable circumstances, poor timing, or general misfortune. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media, often used to contextualize events or situations. While suitable for various contexts, it's advisable to avoid overuse, especially where more specific language could better convey the circumstance. For added clarity and impact, consider using alternatives like "an inopportune moment" or "a difficult period".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inopportune moment

Focuses on the lack of suitability or convenience of the timing.

a bad time

A simpler, more general way to express the same idea.

an unfavorable period

Highlights the adverse conditions or circumstances during that time.

a regrettable situation

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow or disappointment associated with the time.

an inauspicious occasion

Implies that the time is unfavorable for success or good fortune.

an unpropitious moment

Similar to 'inauspicious', suggesting a lack of favorable conditions.

a difficult phase

Highlights the challenging nature of the period.

a tough stretch

Informal way of indicating a period of hardship or difficulty.

an ill-timed event

Underscores the poor timing of a specific incident.

a spell of bad luck

Suggests that the period is characterized by a series of unfortunate events.

FAQs

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

You can use "an unfortunate time" to describe when something happened at a particularly bad moment. For example, "The company's launch occurred at "an unfortunate time", just as the recession began".

What are some alternatives to "an unfortunate time"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "an inopportune moment", "a bad time", or "an unfavorable period".

Is it always appropriate to use "an unfortunate time" in formal writing?

While "an unfortunate time" is generally acceptable, consider whether a more specific or descriptive phrase would better convey the nuance of the situation, especially in formal contexts.

What's the difference between "an unfortunate time" and "a difficult time"?

"An unfortunate time" often implies that the timing or circumstances are particularly unfavorable, while "a difficult time" refers more broadly to a period marked by challenges or hardship. You can use "a difficult time" to emphasize general hardship, and prefer "an unfortunate time" when the ill-timed aspect is more relevant.