it is unfortunate

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is unfortunate" is a perfectly valid and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase can be used to express a feeling of regret or disappointment, for example, "It is unfortunate that we cannot be together for the holidays".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is unfortunate".

The New York Times

It is unfortunate indeed.

Independent

If that is true, it is unfortunate.

The New York Times

"It is unfortunate Congress missed that opportunity".

The New York Times

It is unfortunate that Pfc.

The New York Times

But still, it is unfortunate.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is unfortunate that the article suggests otherwise.

The New York Times

It is unfortunate that the situation exists at all.

The New York Times

"It is unfortunate when you do that to your goalie".

The New York Times - Sports

It is unfortunate that information like this isn't available somewhere.

The New York Times - Arts

It is unfortunate the justices cannot see this likely outcome.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is unfortunate" to express mild disappointment or regret about a situation that cannot be easily changed. Avoid using it when stronger emotions or actions are required.

Common error

Avoid using "it is unfortunate" excessively in highly formal or critical contexts where more direct or impactful language is needed to convey the severity of the situation. Instead, consider phrases that reflect more nuanced or stronger feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unfortunate" serves as an evaluative expression, communicating a sense of regret or disappointment about a particular situation or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression conveys a feeling of mild sorrow or disappointment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is unfortunate" is a versatile expression used to convey mild disappointment or regret. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. With its primary contexts being news and media, it is useful for acknowledging undesirable situations while maintaining a degree of neutrality.

When using "it is unfortunate", consider the specific context to ensure that the level of regret expressed aligns with the situation's severity. For more formal settings or intense emotional contexts, explore alternatives that convey greater nuance or empathy, such as "it's regrettable" or "it's a matter of regret". However, avoid overusing it in highly formal situations where direct, impactful language might be more appropriate. Remember, the goal is to effectively communicate the sentiment without understating or overstating the emotional weight of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's regrettable

Replaces "unfortunate" with "regrettable", maintaining the same level of formality and expressing sorrow.

it's a pity

Uses a more concise expression to convey the feeling of sadness or disappointment.

it's a shame

Similar to "it's a pity", but perhaps slightly less formal.

it's disappointing

Focuses on the feeling of disappointment rather than misfortune.

it's a matter of regret

More formal and emphasizes the feeling of regret associated with a situation.

it's lamentable

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing regret or sorrow.

it's a cause for concern

Shifts the focus to the worrying aspect of a situation, implying that the situation is not ideal.

it's something to be regretted

Emphasizes that the situation deserves regret.

it's hardly ideal

Understates the negativity of the situation, implying that it is far from perfect.

I regret to say that

Personalizes the statement, directly expressing the speaker's regret.

FAQs

How can I use "it is unfortunate" in a sentence?

You can use "it is unfortunate" to express regret or disappointment about a situation. For example, "It is unfortunate that the event was canceled" or "It is unfortunate that we couldn't reach an agreement".

What are some alternatives to "it is unfortunate"?

Alternatives include "it is regrettable", "it is a pity", or "it is disappointing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is unfortunate" formal or informal?

"It is unfortunate" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's suitable for both professional and casual contexts, but it might sound overly mild in intensely emotional situations.

When should I avoid using "it is unfortunate"?

Avoid using "it is unfortunate" when a stronger expression of sympathy or action is needed. In situations involving serious harm or injustice, more emphatic language is typically more appropriate.