unfortunate outcome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfortunate outcome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a negative or undesirable result of a situation or event. Example: "The project faced several challenges, leading to an unfortunate outcome that disappointed the entire team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a logical but unfortunate outcome of such pressure.

The Guardian

The New York State Senate can prevent this unfortunate outcome.

The New York Times

That would be more than an unfortunate outcome for tomorrow's meeting.

University of California, Berkeley

This unfortunate outcome, however, cannot simply be blamed on human rights activists.

Columbia University

Tishman Speyer released a statement characterizing the decision as "an unfortunate outcome for New York".

The New York Times

A well-known example is the unfortunate outcome of actor Christopher Reeve's fall from a horse.

MIT Technology Review

Otherwise, we foresee a looming unfortunate outcome for an entire generation of our young women.

Nature

The game had an unfortunate outcome for the Yankees, but the pall had already been cast.

The New York Times - Sports

An unfortunate outcome of such treatment is that many successful Roma choose not to self-identify as Roma for fear of both social and economic reprisal.

Harvard University

He had presented the argument we hear all the time – it was not my intention to hurt you, this is the unfortunate outcome of events beyond my control.

The Guardian

Harm isn't the point of the exercise; it's simply an inevitable, unfortunate outcome, like the radioactive waste produced from a nuclear power plant.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unfortunate outcome", ensure the context clearly establishes what actions or events led to the negative result. Be specific rather than vague to strengthen your writing.

Common error

While "unfortunate outcome" is acceptable, avoid using it repetitively in formal documents. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "adverse effect" or "undesirable result" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfortunate outcome" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "unfortunate" modifies the noun "outcome". It typically describes a situation or event that has resulted in a negative or undesirable consequence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unfortunate outcome" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a negative or undesirable result. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and choose synonyms like "negative consequence" or "undesirable result" for a more precise or formal tone. Its prevalence in news, academic, and scientific sources underscores its broad applicability, but writers should be mindful of potential overuse, especially in formal writing. Using "unfortunate outcome" effectively involves clearly identifying the preceding events that led to the negative result, enhancing the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwanted consequence

Similar to 'negative consequence' but emphasizes the lack of desire for the result.

negative consequence

Replaces 'outcome' with 'consequence', emphasizing the result as a direct effect of something.

undesirable result

Uses 'undesirable' instead of 'unfortunate', focusing on the lack of preference for the outcome.

adverse effect

More formal and often used in scientific or technical contexts.

poor result

Simplifies the phrase, suitable for less formal situations.

unfavorable development

Emphasizes that the outcome is a change or unfolding event that is not positive.

disappointing conclusion

Focuses on the end or resolution being unsatisfactory.

regrettable situation

Shifts the focus from the outcome to the overall state of affairs.

unhappy ending

More dramatic and typically used in narrative contexts.

failed attempt

Highlights the lack of success in achieving a goal.

FAQs

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

You can use "unfortunate outcome" to describe a negative result or consequence of an event. For example: "The project faced several delays, leading to an unfortunate outcome."

What's a more formal alternative to "unfortunate outcome"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "adverse effect" or "undesirable result" for a more sophisticated tone.

Is there a difference between "unfortunate outcome" and "negative consequence"?

While similar, "unfortunate outcome" is a more general term for a negative result. "Negative consequence" implies a more direct cause-and-effect relationship.

What are some common synonyms for "unfortunate outcome"?

Common synonyms include "negative consequence", "undesirable result", and "poor result", depending on the specific context and level of formality.