unpredictable fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unpredictable fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where luck or outcomes are uncertain and cannot be anticipated. Example: "In the world of gambling, one must always be prepared for unpredictable fortune, as luck can change in an instant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite the unpredictable fortunes of books, I'll hazard a few general rules of what makes a title endure.

The New Yorker

The ever-shifting power dynamic in the occupied nation and the unpredictable fortunes of war tend to undermine even the best-planned attempts to be authoritative.

The New York Times - Arts

There's good evidence that gamblers are hooked, not by sure wins but by lucky wins, unpredictable good fortune.

The Guardian - Opinion

So, on the one level, the wild swings in the teams' fortunes were unpredictable; momentum, as it does in a Newton's Cradle, passed from one side to the other with no discernible movement in between.

The Guardian - Sport

The sudden reversal of fortune reflected the unpredictable nature of a war that has raged across 220 miles of a coastline that stretches more than 1,000 miles.

Los Angeles Times

Fortunes are as unpredictable as ever, with bigger swings of weather variability.

The New York Times - Sports

A man who had answered every tricky question, from every angle, about the fortunes of his unpredictable cricket team suddenly seemed happy to seek shelter from the corruption storm swirling all around him.

Independent

If final tallies confirm that Mr. Golisano is the winner, he and his large personal fortune will become an unpredictable force in an election that otherwise pits the low-key Mr. Pataki against the low-key state comptroller, Carl McCall.

The New York Times

And as Napoleon himself believed, the fortunes of war, being notoriously unpredictable, are ruled by the Goddess of Chance.

Los Angeles Times

In the ancient world, the forces of randomness were personified as the unpredictable will of the gods, or of Fortune herself.

The Guardian

The fortunes of the two were unpredictable and erratic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unpredictable fortune", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to financial, personal, or general circumstances, as the phrase can apply broadly.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "unpredictable fortune" can sound somewhat cliché in formal writing. Opt for more precise language like "market volatility" or "uncertain future" depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unpredictable fortune" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "unpredictable" modifies the noun "fortune". This phrase describes the characteristic of fortune as being subject to unforeseen changes. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unpredictable fortune" is a phrase used to describe situations where outcomes are uncertain and heavily influenced by chance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it appears most frequently in News & Media, its neutral register allows for use in various contexts, though formal writing may benefit from more precise alternatives like "market volatility" or "uncertain future". The phrase serves to highlight the risks and instability associated with situations where outcomes are not easily predictable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capricious fate

Emphasizes the whimsical and erratic nature of destiny.

erratic luck

Focuses on the inconsistent and unreliable nature of luck.

uncertain destiny

Highlights the unknown and potentially variable nature of one's future.

fluctuating fortunes

Suggests changes and ups and downs in someone's overall circumstances.

variable luck

Implies that luck is subject to change and is not constant.

random chance

Highlights the absence of a discernible pattern or intention.

chancy gamble

Focuses on the risky and uncertain elements in making a bet or decision.

unforeseeable outcome

Emphasizes the impossibility to predict or anticipate a result.

fortuitous uncertainty

Highlights the accidental or chance nature of uncertain events.

hazardous luck

Points out potential risks and dangers associated with luck.

FAQs

How can I use "unpredictable fortune" in a sentence?

You can use "unpredictable fortune" to describe situations where outcomes are uncertain and heavily influenced by luck. For example: "The company's success depends on the "unpredictable fortune" of the stock market."

What are some alternatives to "unpredictable fortune"?

Alternatives include "capricious fate", "erratic luck", or "uncertain destiny", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "unpredictable fortune" formal or informal?

"Unpredictable fortune" is generally considered neutral in tone. While it can be used in various contexts, more formal situations might benefit from more precise or technical language.

What makes "unpredictable fortune" different from "good luck"?

"Unpredictable fortune" emphasizes the fluctuating and uncertain nature of luck, while "good luck" simply indicates a positive outcome. "Unpredictable fortune" suggests that things can change rapidly and without warning.