unfortunately

Used to show that you are sad or disappointed about what you are saying.

• Unfortunately, I cannot come tonight.
• We arrived early, but unfortunately the shop was closed.
• Unfortunately for us, the last train had already left.

Similar words: sadly, regrettably

Opposites: fortunately

Common phrases: unfortunately for someone, unfortunately not, unfortunately unavailable, unfortunately impossible

Because of bad luck or an unlucky event.

• The meeting unfortunately coincided with a train strike.
• He unfortunately stepped on the only broken tile.
• Their visit was unfortunately timed during a week of storms.

Similar words: unluckily

Opposites: fortunately

Common phrases: unfortunately placed, unfortunately timed, unfortunately caught