spell of ill fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spell of ill fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period of bad luck or misfortune that someone is experiencing. Example: "After a long spell of ill fortune, she finally found a job that suited her skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Vartsabas have had their share of ill fortune.

The New York Times

We end today a period of ill fortune and India discovers herself again.

The Guardian

Each day this city presents its residents with ghastly sights and reminders that there has been no shortage of ill fortune here.

The New York Times

We have more resources than Singapore!" All countries hoping to reverse decades of ill fortune invariably market themselves as "the next Singapore".

The New York Times

Similarly, Barca's other recent defeats have contained moments of ill fortune.

BBC

A combination of ill fortune and machine failure have dogged his progress in recent seasons.

BBC

State intervention to redistribute resources should be understood as a last resort for dealing with problems of ill fortune.

University of Chicago

According to Italian folklore, on Tuesday and Friday, weddings must be avoided, while the number 17 (instead of 13 in the English-speaking world) is considered to be a day of ill fortune.

Genus

Their run of ill fortune briefly abated when Australia won the toss but soon returned as two wickets fell in the first 19 balls.

BBC

Or, were these just tragic cases of ill fortune?

Huffington Post

Through an open window, a comet is seen – a portent sign of ill fortune.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spell of ill fortune", consider the context and whether a more common phrase like "period of bad luck" would be more appropriate for your audience. Ensure it aligns with the overall tone and formality of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "spell of ill fortune" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly dramatic or archaic. Opt for simpler alternatives like "bad luck" or "tough times" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell of ill fortune" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a period or duration characterized by misfortune or bad luck. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Wiki

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Academia

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Encyclopedias

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spell of ill fortune" refers to a period marked by bad luck or misfortune. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI confirms, it's not as commonly used as simpler alternatives like "period of bad luck" or "time of misfortune". It is often found in neutral to formal contexts, such as news and media, but may sound overly formal in casual conversation. When writing, consider the intended audience and choose the most appropriate phrasing. While "spell of ill fortune" is valid, simpler alternatives may often be more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

period of bad luck

This alternative provides a more straightforward and commonly used expression for a time when things are not going well.

run of bad luck

Similar to period of bad luck, but suggests a continuous streak of unfavorable outcomes.

time of misfortune

This alternative focuses on the unfortunate nature of the events occurring, rather than the duration.

bout of bad luck

This suggests a shorter, more intense period of negative events.

patch of bad luck

Suggests a temporary and isolated instance of misfortune.

series of unfortunate events

This phrase emphasizes a chain of negative occurrences, often implying external factors.

wave of misfortune

Implies a sudden and overwhelming experience of bad luck.

streak of ill fate

Emphasizes the role of fate or destiny in the negative events.

cycle of adversity

Highlights a recurring pattern of hardship and difficulty.

chapter of mishaps

Indicates a specific period marked by a series of unfortunate accidents or mistakes.

FAQs

What does "spell of ill fortune" mean?

The phrase "spell of ill fortune" refers to a period or duration characterized by bad luck, misfortune, or adverse events. It implies a time when things are consistently not going well for someone.

What can I say instead of "spell of ill fortune"?

You can use alternatives like "period of bad luck", "time of misfortune", or "run of bad luck" depending on the context.

Is "spell of ill fortune" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "spell of ill fortune" isn't as commonly used as simpler alternatives. Using alternatives like "bad luck" or "misfortune" might be more appropriate in many situations.

How to use "spell of ill fortune" in a sentence?

Example usage: "After a long spell of ill fortune, she finally found a job that suited her skills." You can replace it with "period of bad luck" or "time of misfortune" for a more common expression.