unfortunate matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfortunate matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a situation or issue that is regrettable or undesirable. Example: "The recent events surrounding the project have turned into an unfortunate matter that we need to address promptly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Then there is the unfortunate matter of what he does to Forman's prose.

The New York Times - Books

The official wrote, "I hope we can put this unfortunate matter behind us quickly".

The New York Times

And then there's that unfortunate matter of the doorknob, which today would seem better suited to an episode of "Jackass".

The New York Times - Arts

Referring to his scheduled departure, he added, "In an effort to put this unfortunate matter behind us, NPR and I have agreed that my resignation is effective today".

The New York Times

There is also the unfortunate matter of pollution -- loud talk -- less lethal than second-hand smoke, but a toxic irritant nonetheless.

The New York Times

We will also continue to cooperate fully with the proper authorities and the N.B.A. Beyond our previous statements on this serious and unfortunate matter, we will have no further comment at this time".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Historically, when wives of prominent government officials encountered problems with the law, whether in drug addiction or alcohol abuse, these unfortunate personal matters have not marred the career aspirations of a male candidate.

The New York Times

Be careful to avoid alienating a member of the group over unfortunate trivial matters when lives might be at risk.

WikiHow

"The brutal manner in which Sanaullah was attacked in the jail is most unfortunate and a matter of deep concern for the Government of Pakistan.

The New York Times

"It's unfortunate that a matter the state grand jury exonerated Craig on, the federal government felt compelled to move forward on," Mr. London said.

The New York Times

Democratic House Budget Committee Chairman Harry Moberly said Cowgill "had the council headed in the right direction" and added "I would have been satisfied if Brad had the permanent position, but I do not criticize the governor for the role he had played [in Cowgill's resignation]." Senate President David Williams called Beshear's interference in the matter "unfortunate".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unfortunate matter" to maintain a formal and neutral tone when discussing sensitive or problematic situations.

Common error

Avoid using "unfortunate matter" excessively, as it can sound evasive or insincere. Opt for more direct language when appropriate to convey transparency and accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfortunate matter" functions as a noun phrase, where "unfortunate" modifies the noun "matter". It generally serves to describe a situation or event that is undesirable, regrettable, or problematic. Ludwig AI confirms this usage as correct and provides examples from varied sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unfortunate matter" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a regrettable or problematic situation. Ludwig AI verifies that it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While the phrase is generally acceptable, be mindful of overuse and consider more direct language when appropriate. Related phrases like "regrettable situation" or "unpleasant issue" can offer alternative ways to express the same idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regrettable situation

Replaces 'matter' with 'situation' and 'unfortunate' with 'regrettable', emphasizing the disappointment.

unpleasant issue

Substitutes 'matter' with 'issue' and 'unfortunate' with 'unpleasant', highlighting the disagreeable nature of the problem.

undesirable event

Replaces 'matter' with 'event' and 'unfortunate' with 'undesirable', focusing on the unwelcome occurrence.

lamentable affair

Substitutes 'matter' with 'affair' and 'unfortunate' with 'lamentable', adding a tone of sorrow or regret.

deplorable circumstance

Replaces 'matter' with 'circumstance' and 'unfortunate' with 'deplorable', emphasizing the reprehensible nature of the situation.

unhappy incident

Substitutes 'matter' with 'incident' and 'unfortunate' with 'unhappy', focusing on the distressing nature of the event.

adverse development

Replaces 'matter' with 'development' and 'unfortunate' with 'adverse', highlighting the negative progression of events.

awkward situation

Replaces 'unfortunate' with 'awkward', suggesting discomfort or difficulty.

problematic circumstance

Replaces 'unfortunate' with 'problematic', focusing on the troublesomeness of the situation.

difficult issue

Replaces 'unfortunate' with 'difficult', highlighting the challenging aspect of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "unfortunate matter" in a sentence?

You can use "unfortunate matter" to refer to a situation that is regrettable or undesirable. For example, "The recent budget cuts are an unfortunate matter that will affect our project timeline."

What can I say instead of "unfortunate matter"?

You can use alternatives like "regrettable situation", "unpleasant issue", or "undesirable event" depending on the specific context.

Is "unfortunate matter" formal or informal?

"Unfortunate matter" is generally considered to be a relatively formal phrase, suitable for professional or news contexts. More informal alternatives exist, but may not be appropriate in all situations.

What's the difference between "unfortunate matter" and "difficult situation"?

"Unfortunate matter" implies a sense of regret or disappointment about a situation, while "difficult situation" simply indicates that a situation is challenging or problematic. The former carries a slightly stronger emotional connotation.