are unfortunate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are unfortunate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe situations, events, or circumstances that are regrettable or undesirable. Example: "The delays in the project timeline are unfortunate, as they impact our overall schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Farmers are unfortunate collateral damaged.

The Guardian

The delays in restructuring Airbus are unfortunate.

The Economist

Statistical errors are unfortunate but unavoidable.

The Guardian

I think many statements are unfortunate.

The Guardian

"These cuts are unfortunate," he said cautiously.

The New York Times

My logic that day was: All blind people are unfortunate.

The New York Times

In this context, "Life" and "Death" are unfortunate catchalls.

The New Yorker

"I think those kinds of statements are unfortunate," he said.

The New York Times

Occasional interruptions of service are unfortunate, but hardly cataclysmic.

The New York Times

Current circumstances are far from ruinous, but they are unfortunate.

The Guardian - Sport

More typically, cases like Sunnat's are unfortunate consequences of policy and circumstance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are unfortunate", ensure the context clearly indicates what is causing the misfortune or regret. Be specific about the consequences or implications of the unfortunate situation to provide a complete understanding.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that things "are unfortunate" without explaining why. Readers need to understand the specific reasons or impacts of the unfortunate situation. Provide details to clarify the significance of the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are unfortunate" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate that the subject is experiencing or causing misfortune, regret, or undesirable circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are unfortunate" is a versatile and frequently used expression to convey regret, disappointment, or concern about unfavorable situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. It's particularly common in news media, scientific discourse, and formal communications. When using this phrase, providing context and specific details enhances clarity and impact. Alternatives like "are regrettable" or "are lamentable" can offer subtle variations in tone and emphasis. Always ensure proper subject-verb agreement, using "are" with plural subjects and "is" with singular ones, and provide context when using "are unfortunate" in order to ensure clear communication of specific situations that are undesirable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are regrettable

Expresses sorrow or disappointment about something, focusing on the feeling of regret.

are lamentable

Highlights the mournful or grievous nature of the situation.

are a pity

Emphasizes the feeling of sadness or disappointment about the situation.

are a matter of regret

Directly states that the situation causes feelings of regret.

are a source of disappointment

Highlights the disappointing aspect of the situation.

are a cause for concern

Emphasizes the worrying or alarming aspect of the situation.

are undesirable

Focuses on the unwanted or unwelcome nature of the circumstances.

are to be deplored

Indicates strong disapproval and regret about the situation.

are a setback

Emphasizes that the situation represents a hindrance or delay in progress.

are adverse

Highlights the negative and unfavorable impact of the situation.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are unfortunate" is used to describe situations or events that are regrettable or undesirable. For example, "The delays in the project timeline "are unfortunate", as they impact our overall schedule".

What can I say instead of "are unfortunate"?

You can use alternatives like "are regrettable", "are lamentable", or "are a pity" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are unfortunate" or "is unfortunate"?

"Are unfortunate" is used with plural subjects, while "is unfortunate" is used with singular subjects. For example, "The delays "are unfortunate"", but "The delay "is unfortunate"".

What's the difference between "are unfortunate" and "are disappointing"?

"Are unfortunate" generally refers to circumstances influenced by bad luck or external factors, while "are disappointing" suggests a failure to meet expectations. The two can overlap, but "disappointing" often implies a stronger sense of unmet potential.