Expressing regret about an event

The idea

Use unfortunately to present an event as unwelcome. It often begins a sentence followed by a comma, but can also appear within it.

Examples

• Unfortunately, the ferry is cancelled.
• Unfortunately, we missed the exhibition.
• The cake unfortunately fell on the floor.
• Unfortunately, the garden needs more rain.
• Our meeting unfortunately ends before lunch.
• Unfortunately, the library cannot accept donations today.

Watch out

Unfortunately expresses the speaker’s attitude; it does not explain why the event happened.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the word that expresses regret. ___, the concert has been postponed. (unfortunately / usually)

   Show answer or example answer

   unfortunately

   Unfortunately conveys disappointment about the postponed concert.

2. Choose the word that expresses regret. The key is ___ missing, so we cannot enter. (unfortunately / twice)

   Show answer or example answer

   unfortunately

   Unfortunately marks the missing key as unwelcome.

3. Choose the word that expresses regret. ___, there are no seats left for the workshop. (unfortunately / slowly)

   Show answer or example answer

   unfortunately

   Unfortunately shows regret that the workshop is full.

Use it today

Describe a disappointing change of plans.