unfortunately that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfortunately that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express regret or disappointment about a situation that follows the phrase. Example: "Unfortunately that was the last available ticket, and now we cannot attend the concert."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unfortunately, that is nonsense.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that wasn't allowed.

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, that may change.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that doesn't always happen.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that is about it.

The Economist

"Unfortunately, that did not happen.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that could be true.

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, that coverage is limited.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that is increasingly probable".

Independent

"Unfortunately, that day has come".

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that is highly unlikely.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unfortunately that" to introduce a statement that contradicts or negates a previous positive statement or expectation. It softens the blow of the negative information.

Common error

Avoid using "unfortunately that" as a complete sentence. It requires a subsequent clause to clarify what 'that' refers to. Without this, the statement is incomplete and lacks clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfortunately that" functions as an adverbial phrase followed by a demonstrative pronoun, introducing a statement that expresses disappointment or contradiction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common way to preface negative information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unfortunately that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce disappointing or contradictory information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that 'that' clearly refers to a previously mentioned situation or expectation. While alternatives like "regrettably that" or "sadly that" exist, "unfortunately that" provides a balanced and widely accepted tone. Remember to avoid using it as a standalone sentence; it always requires a subsequent clause to complete its meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's unfortunate that

Adds emphasis to the unfortunate nature of the situation.

regrettably that

Replaces "unfortunately" with a more formal synonym, "regrettably".

it's regrettable that

Similar to "regrettably that" but phrased as a full sentence.

unluckily that

Replaces "unfortunately" with a synonym that emphasizes bad luck.

sadly that

Substitutes "unfortunately" with a simpler, more direct expression of sadness.

by bad luck that

Emphasizes the role of bad luck in causing the unfavorable situation.

it's disappointing that

Focuses on the disappointing aspect of the situation.

alas that

Replaces "unfortunately" with an interjection expressing grief or regret, lending a slightly archaic tone.

it is a matter of regret that

A more formal and emphatic way to express regret.

it's a pity that

Offers a more conversational way to express regret about the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "unfortunately that" in a sentence?

The phrase "unfortunately that" is typically used to introduce a negative or disappointing fact that contrasts with a previous statement or expectation. For example, "We were hoping for a sunny day, unfortunately that didn't happen".

What are some alternatives to using "unfortunately that"?

Alternatives include "regrettably that", "sadly that", or simply rephrasing to start with "it's unfortunate that."

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "unfortunately that"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. "Unfortunately" functions as an adverb, modifying the statement that follows, and "that" refers back to something previously mentioned or implied.

What is the tone conveyed by using "unfortunately that"?

Using "unfortunately that" conveys a tone of disappointment, regret, or mild negativity. It acknowledges an unfavorable situation or outcome in a somewhat softened manner.