unfortunately unfortunately

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfortunately unfortunately" is not standard in written English and may be considered redundant.
It could be used for emphasis in informal contexts, but it is generally better to avoid repetition. Example: "Unfortunately, unfortunately, we have to cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Unfortunately, unfortunately, unfortunately, in the elections on June 3, Bashar Assad would be holding elections over the blood of Syrians," Ahmad Alqusair said via Skype from a rebel-held town near the Lebanese border.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Unfortunately... eh, unfortunately... she did not add, eh... AND THE POETICAL TALENT OF ALEXANDER POPE!" The diversionary monologue runs into tributaries of extraordinary erudition, helped along by an old-fashioned appetite for afternoon drinking.

The Guardian - Books

But, unfortunately.

The New Yorker

Neither, unfortunately.

Independent

Unfortunately, no.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, yes.

The New York Times

Me, unfortunately.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

No, unfortunately".

The Guardian - Sport

Nothing, unfortunately.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Unfortunately, no," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Unfortunately, dams can fail.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For emphasis, consider alternatives like "most unfortunately" or restructuring the sentence to highlight the negative aspect without direct repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "unfortunately unfortunately" in formal writing; it can sound unprofessional or unintentionally humorous. Instead, opt for a single, strong adverb or rephrase to emphasize the unfortunate aspect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfortunately unfortunately" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to express regret or disappointment. Ludwig AI indicates that its usage, though present, is not standard and can be seen as redundant.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unfortunately unfortunately" is used for emphasis, but Ludwig AI identifies it as redundant and non-standard. It expresses regret or disappointment, found mainly in News & Media. For formal writing, it’s better to opt for single adverbs like "regrettably" or "sadly". Using repetition can be seen as unprofessional, avoid overusing the phrase and prefer to add emphasis by restructuring sentences. While acceptable in informal speech for heightened expression, it's advisable to seek stronger alternatives in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Regrettably

Single word that conveys a formal sense of disappointment or regret, replacing the repeated adverbs.

Sadly

Single word alternative expressing sorrow or disappointment. More concise and common than repeating "unfortunately".

It is regrettable that

Introduces the unfortunate situation with a more formal and descriptive phrase.

It's a matter of regret that

Highlights the situation as something to be regretted, adding a layer of emotional depth.

To my dismay

Expresses personal disappointment and surprise at the unfortunate situation.

Alas

An interjection expressing grief, pity, or concern. It is a more dramatic and literary alternative.

I'm afraid

A common way to introduce bad news or an unfortunate situation in a polite manner.

By bad luck

Focuses on the role of chance or misfortune in the situation.

Unluckily

Single word adverb that means without luck, or unfortunately.

Inauspiciously

Describes the situation as unfavorable or suggesting bad luck. More formal and less common.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "unfortunately unfortunately"?

While not strictly incorrect, repeating "unfortunately" is generally considered redundant and stylistically weak. It's better to use a single "unfortunately" or find a stronger alternative.

When is it appropriate to use "unfortunately unfortunately"?

The phrase might be used in informal speech to emphasize a sense of disappointment or frustration. However, it's best avoided in formal or professional writing.

What are some alternatives to "unfortunately unfortunately"?

You can use alternatives like "regrettably", "sadly", or rephrase the sentence to highlight the negative aspect without repetition. Consider "most unfortunately" for emphasis.

How can I emphasize misfortune without repeating "unfortunately"?

You can use intensifiers like "most" (most unfortunately) or rephrase the sentence to emphasize the negative consequences. For example, instead of "Unfortunately, the project failed, unfortunately", try "The project's failure was a significant setback".