The word "unfortunate" is spelled with a prefix "un" which means "not" and the root word "fortunate" which means "lucky" or "blessed". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ʌnˈfɔːtʃənət/. The stress is on the second syllable, and the "f" sound is pronounced as a voiceless labiodental fricative. The "a" in the third syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound. "Unfortunate" is commonly used to describe a person or situation experiencing bad luck or hardship.
Unfortunate is an adjective that describes an event, situation, or person that is marked by bad luck, misfortune, or unfavorable circumstances. It denotes a condition that is regrettable, displeasing, or distressing.
In connection to events, it refers to those that are unlucky, distressing, or disappointing. For instance, an unfortunate incident might involve a car accident, a natural disaster, or the loss of a loved one. It implies an unhappy outcome that is beyond one's control.
Concerning situations, it generally refers to those that are unfavorable, pitiable, or problematic. For example, an unfortunate circumstance could be the occurrence of a chronic illness, a financial struggle, or a difficult family situation. It suggests a state that is seen as disheartening, burdensome, or undesired.
When referring to a person, it characterizes someone who is experiencing a streak of bad luck or someone who has faced unfavorable circumstances. It implies sympathy or pity towards them. For instance, an unfortunate individual might be someone who has lost their job, experienced a personal tragedy, or is living in poverty.
Overall, the term "unfortunate" reflects events, situations, or individuals that have faced hardship, disappointment, or sorrow. It conveys a sense of sympathy or empathy towards those who have encountered challenging or unlucky circumstances.
• Unfortunately.
• Not successful; not prosperous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word unfortunate is derived from Latin roots. The prefix un- conveys negation or reversal, indicating the opposite of something. The root word, fortunate, comes from the Latin word fortunatus, which means prosperous or lucky. Therefore, unfortunate essentially means not lucky or lacking in prosperity.