series of unfortunate events

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "series of unfortunate events" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sequence of negative or unlucky occurrences that happen to someone or something. Example: "After a series of unfortunate events, she decided to take a break and reassess her life choices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Literature

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His biography really is a series of unfortunate events.

The New Yorker

A series of unfortunate events ensued, but it's important not to rush to judgment.

The New Yorker

This series of unfortunate events put the emperor in a pickle.

The New Yorker

Koska's efforts to enter the market have been blighted by a series of unfortunate events.

The Guardian

(Ages 4 to 8) 5 4 48 A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS, by Lemony Snicket.

The New York Times

Rapidly, she filled me in on a series of unfortunate events that led to that very bad morning.

The New York Times

Midnight's Children took an unusually long time to be published, because of a series of unfortunate events.

The Guardian - Books

There is a case for being pretty brutal". The situation in England was exacerbated by a series of unfortunate events.

The Guardian - Sport

The district attorney, Pat Lykos, said Mr. Rachell's conviction resulted from "a series of unfortunate events, blunders and omissions".

The New York Times

"This is yet another in a series of unfortunate events," said Shelly Lombard, an analyst with Gimme Credit in New York.

The New York Times

"It's about a small-town location, a series of unfortunate events that affects the entire community and what they told themselves about it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "series of unfortunate events" to subtly introduce a narrative or situation where a sequence of negative occurrences significantly impacts the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "series of unfortunate events" in overly grave or tragic contexts where a more serious or respectful tone is required. Its slightly literary and detached quality may seem inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "series of unfortunate events" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence to describe a sequence of negative occurrences. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "series of unfortunate events" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a sequence of negative incidents. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds application across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While universally understood, its tone may not always be appropriate for solemn subjects. For more direct and formal writing, alternatives like "a period of setbacks" might be preferred. Consider using more specific words to reflect events. Depending on the intended nuance, options like "string of bad luck" or "chain of misfortunes" offer similar meanings. When writing with "series of unfortunate events", remember to consider tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chain of misfortunes

Highlights the interconnected and sequential nature of the adverse events.

string of bad luck

Emphasizes the role of chance or luck in the sequence of negative occurrences.

run of ill luck

Focuses on a period or streak of unfavorable outcomes.

setback after setback

Underscores the repetitive and hindering nature of the adverse events.

succession of calamities

Implies a more severe and disastrous sequence of events.

wave of crises

Suggests multiple critical events occurring in close proximity.

litany of woes

Highlights the burdensome and lamentable aspects of the experiences.

tale of hardship

Refers to a narrative recounting difficult or adverse circumstances.

chapter of accidents

Suggests a segment or phase marked by unforeseen and undesirable incidents.

comedy of errors

Describes a situation that is absurd or disorganized, but not necessarily tragic.

FAQs

How can I use "series of unfortunate events" in a sentence?

You can use "series of unfortunate events" to describe a sequence of negative occurrences, such as: "The company's downfall began with a "series of unfortunate events" including a product recall and a major lawsuit."

What are some alternatives to saying "series of unfortunate events"?

Alternatives include "string of bad luck", "chain of misfortunes", or "run of ill luck", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "series of unfortunate events" in formal writing?

While "series of unfortunate events" is grammatically correct, it may be more suitable for informal or narrative contexts. In formal writing, consider using more direct and objective language such as "a period of setbacks" or "a sequence of adverse occurrences."

What is the difference between "series of unfortunate events" and "comedy of errors"?

"Series of unfortunate events" describes a sequence of negative occurrences that can range in severity. "Comedy of errors", on the other hand, specifically refers to a situation that is absurd, disorganized, and often humorous in its unfolding, despite the troubles it causes.