however unfortunately

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however unfortunately" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express a contradiction, for example in the sentence: "The weather was beautiful today, however unfortunately it will likely rain tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, unfortunately, much is police theory.

The New York Times

However, unfortunately not all British neighbourhoods have these basic components in place.

The Guardian

However, unfortunately they often have little or no evidence supporting the impact they will have on learning".

The Guardian

However unfortunately Gormally and I were both badly out of form - he made 1.5/5 and I 3/8.

The Guardian - Sport

However, unfortunately I hear that the Christmas ghosts of past, present and future are rather unreliable, and that haunting a potential employer is somewhat frowned upon.

The Guardian

However unfortunately for you younger ones I recommend this to 11+ as it has quite a bit of swearing and violence and some other not very nice stuff.

The Guardian

However unfortunately, in this incident UCLU proved their unwillingness to take a stance against ISIS and to support the Kurdish cause.

Independent

Contrast transition (but, however, unfortunately).

Lingua Sinica

However, unfortunately, this property is typically not satisfied.

Artificial Intelligence

However, unfortunately traffic matrix is significantly difficult directly to attain.

Computer Networks

However, unfortunately many narrow holes with different diameters are contained within the anodized coating.

International Journal of Fatigue

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however unfortunately" to introduce a contrasting or disappointing fact after a previous statement. This phrase is most effective when you want to acknowledge a positive or neutral point before presenting a negative one.

Common error

Avoid using "however unfortunately" too frequently in casual conversation or informal writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound overly formal or repetitive. Consider using simpler alternatives like "but sadly" or "though it's a shame" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however unfortunately" functions as a transitional phrase that combines a contrastive conjunction ("however") with an adverb of manner ("unfortunately"). It serves to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous one, while also expressing a sense of regret or disappointment about the contrasting information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "however unfortunately" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a contrasting idea tinged with regret or disappointment. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in scientific and news media contexts, this phrase is suitable for neutral to formal writing. While grammatically correct, overuse in informal settings should be avoided. Remember to use it when you want to acknowledge a prior point while also highlighting a negative aspect, making your writing more nuanced and considerate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nevertheless, regrettably

Replaces "however" with "nevertheless" for a stronger sense of contrast and "unfortunately" with "regrettably" emphasizing sorrow.

Nonetheless, unluckily

Substitutes "however" with "nonetheless" to indicate contrast and "unfortunately" with "unluckily".

Still, regrettably

Employs "still" for a milder contrast and "regrettably" to convey sorrow about the situation.

Yet, sadly

Uses "yet" for a simpler contrast and "sadly" to directly convey the unfortunate aspect.

Even so, it's unfortunate that

Combines "even so" to acknowledge a previous point and "it's unfortunate that" to highlight the negative aspect.

However, to my dismay

Replaces "unfortunately" with "to my dismay" to express personal disappointment.

That being said, sadly

Uses "that being said" as a transitional phrase and "sadly" to express the unfortunate consequence.

Despite this, it's a pity that

Introduces the contrast with "despite this" and expresses misfortune with "it's a pity that".

On the other hand, it's disappointing that

Uses "on the other hand" to signal a contrast and "it's disappointing that" to express the negative outcome.

Be that as it may, regrettably

Offers a formal way to express contrast with "be that as it may" and expresses sorrow with "regrettably".

FAQs

How can I use "however unfortunately" in a sentence?

You can use "however unfortunately" to introduce a piece of negative information that contrasts with a previous statement. For example, "The team played well; "however unfortunately", they lost the game".

What are some alternatives to "however unfortunately"?

Alternatives include "but sadly", "though it's a shame", or "regrettably", depending on the context and desired tone.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "however unfortunately"?

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence directly with "however unfortunately" can sound awkward. It's generally better to include a preceding clause or use a smoother transition.

What is the difference between "however" and "however unfortunately"?

"However" simply indicates a contrast. "However unfortunately" adds an element of regret or disappointment to the contrast, emphasizing the negative aspect of the situation.