fortunate circumstance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fortunate circumstance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that is favorable or beneficial, often unexpectedly. Example: "Winning the lottery was a fortunate circumstance that changed his life forever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

This is a fortunate circumstance.

The New York Times - Arts

The fact that the Mongols could not reunite themselves was a fortunate circumstance for Ming China.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is due to an extraordinarily fortunate circumstance that I was saved from Dachau in 1933.

Yale University

NASA takes advantage of this fortunate circumstance every times it sends a spacecraft to the outer solar system.

The New York Times - Science

Officials say the one fortunate circumstance -- the end of the harvest season weeks ago -- is likely to spare the East heavy fiscal damage.

The New York Times

Fortunate circumstance has brought the old dowager a new look, and we congratulate the owners, Maureen and Charles Steppe, and the designers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Ray's string of fortunate circumstances ended with the Restoration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet these fortunate circumstances are not the whole story.

The Guardian - Business

They learn to appreciate the family legacy and their own fortunate circumstances.

The New York Times

He once described his life as "a succession of fortunate circumstances".

The New Yorker

Under the most fortunate circumstances, Jackson might sell a tape or a CD every 20 minutes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fortunate circumstance" to highlight unexpected benefits or advantages that arise from a specific situation. For varied expression, consider synonyms like "lucky break" or "happy coincidence".

Common error

While "fortunate circumstance" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated vocabulary to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fortunate circumstance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a situation or event that is characterized by good luck or favorable conditions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fortunate circumstance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a beneficial situation that arises unexpectedly. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. While synonyms like "lucky break" or "happy coincidence" can offer variety, "fortunate circumstance" is a reliable choice for conveying a sense of unexpected good fortune, though perhaps less suited to highly formal academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lucky break

Focuses on the element of luck and sudden unexpected benefit.

stroke of luck

Emphasizes the unexpected and beneficial nature of a lucky event.

happy coincidence

Highlights the chance occurrence of favorable events.

favorable opportunity

Focuses on the positive potential offered by a particular situation.

advantageous situation

Emphasizes the beneficial aspects of a particular set of conditions.

propitious moment

Highlights the timeliness and favorability of a particular opportunity.

golden opportunity

Focuses on the great value and potential of the chance.

windfall

Highlights the unexpected and substantial nature of the good fortune.

serendipitous event

Emphasizes the accidental and beneficial nature of the occurrence.

blessing in disguise

Suggests that an initially negative situation ultimately leads to a positive outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "fortunate circumstance" in a sentence?

You can use "fortunate circumstance" to describe a positive event or situation that occurs unexpectedly, such as "It was a "fortunate circumstance" that the rain stopped before the outdoor concert began."

What phrases can I use instead of "fortunate circumstance"?

Alternatives to "fortunate circumstance" include phrases like "lucky break", "stroke of luck", or "happy coincidence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "fortunate circumstances" instead of "fortunate circumstance"?

Yes, both are correct. "Fortunate circumstance" refers to a single instance, while "fortunate circumstances" refers to a set of favorable conditions or events. For example: "Due to a series of "fortunate circumstances", the company exceeded its quarterly goals."

What's the difference between "fortunate circumstance" and "opportunity"?

"Fortunate circumstance" emphasizes the unexpected and beneficial nature of an event, while "opportunity" suggests a chance or possibility for advancement or progress. A "fortunate circumstance" might create an opportunity.