19 Other Ways to Say “Unfortunately”

Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and unfortunately, we all face those moments when things take an unexpected turn. Whether it’s a missed opportunity or an unforeseen setback, we’ve all been there. Unfortunately, it’s part of the journey, and how we handle it matters.

Delivering bad news can be one of the hardest things to do, but unfortunately, it’s something we all have to do at times. Whether you’re letting someone down or sharing disappointing updates, using the word “unfortunately” softens the blow. For instance, “Unfortunately, we missed the deadline.” It shows empathy and consideration. You can also use alternatives like “I’m afraid” or “regrettably” to express the same sentiment. So, next time you need to deliver unwelcome news, remember that a simple word like unfortunately can make all the difference.

Other Ways to Say “Unfortunately”

When delivering bad news, using alternative phrases like “Regrettably,” “Sadly,” or “I’m afraid” can help express disappointment while softening the blow. These expressions convey a sense of empathy and understanding, making it easier to communicate setbacks or challenges without sounding overly harsh or detached.

Expressions of Regret

Unfortunately, we have to inform you that the event has been postponed. This is due to unforeseen circumstances that were beyond our control. We understand how disappointing this news might be and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. It’s always disheartening to deliver such messages, but we hope to reschedule soon.

1. Regrettably

Example: “Regrettably, the event has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.”
Meaning: The word “regrettably” conveys a sense of sorrow or disappointment about a particular situation.
Usage: It’s often used in formal communications, such as official announcements or emails, when delivering news that expresses regret or disappointment.

2. Sadly

Example: “Sadly, we won’t be able to attend the wedding.”
Meaning: “Sadly” expresses sorrow or unhappiness about a situation.
Usage: This word is suitable for both formal and informal settings, providing a direct way to convey disappointment or sympathy.

3. I’m afraid

Example: “I’m afraid that’s not possible at the moment.”
Meaning: A polite expression used to convey bad news or to decline a request, often with a sense of reluctance.
Usage: Commonly used in everyday conversations, especially when delivering unfavorable news in a courteous manner.

Conveying Unexpected Outcomes

Unfortunately, the project timeline has been delayed due to some unexpected challenges. Despite our best efforts, certain factors beyond our control have caused setbacks. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and will continue working diligently to ensure progress. We appreciate your understanding during this unexpected turn of events.

4. To my dismay

Example: “To my dismay, the project deadline was moved up unexpectedly.”
Meaning: This phrase expresses a sense of shock or disappointment upon encountering an unpleasant or surprising situation.
Usage: It is used when sharing an outcome that causes personal distress or disappointment, often in more informal or personal contexts.

5. Much to our chagrin

Example: “Much to our chagrin, the event was canceled last minute.”
Meaning: This expression emphasizes a sense of embarrassment or frustration about a situation.
Usage: Commonly used in both formal and informal settings to convey a stronger emotional response, particularly when the outcome is not only disappointing but also slightly embarrassing.

6. On the downside

Example: “On the downside, the weather forecast predicts rain for the weekend.”
Meaning: This phrase highlights the negative aspect of a situation, often following a more positive statement.
Usage: Often used in both professional and casual conversations to point out a drawback or negative consequence after discussing something more favorable.

Softening the Blow

Unfortunately, we are unable to move forward with your application at this time. While this news may come as a disappointment, we want to emphasize that the decision does not reflect your qualifications or potential. We encourage you to stay in touch for future opportunities.

7. On a less positive note

Example: “On a less positive note, the company has experienced some budget cuts.”
Meaning: This phrase is used to transition into a more negative or disappointing topic after discussing something positive.
Usage: Common in both formal and informal communications when you want to shift the tone of the conversation toward a less favorable aspect.

8. It’s a pity that

Example: “It’s a pity that we couldn’t attend the concert due to last-minute changes.”
Meaning: This phrase expresses regret or sympathy for an unfortunate situation.
Usage: It is often used in casual conversations to express sadness about missed opportunities or disappointing outcomes.

9. Alas

Example: “Alas, we were unable to reach a consensus before the deadline.”
Meaning: “Alas” is a somewhat dramatic or poetic expression used to convey sorrow, disappointment, or regret.
Usage: It is typically used in formal or literary contexts and can lend a sense of gravity or sorrow to the situation being discussed.

Read More: 12 Other Ways to Say “Even Though”

More Phrases to Say “Unfortunately”

Unfortunately, situations don’t always go as planned. In such cases, expressions like “To our dismay,” “It’s regrettable that,” or “It’s a shame that” can soften the impact while conveying disappointment. These phrases help to communicate unexpected outcomes with empathy and sensitivity, making the message easier to accept.

10. To our dismay

Example: “To our dismay, the project was delayed due to unforeseen technical issues.”
Meaning: This phrase conveys a strong sense of disappointment or frustration about an unexpected negative outcome.
Usage: It is typically used in formal communications or reports where the speaker wants to express a significant sense of regret or dissatisfaction.

11. It’s regrettable that

Example: “It’s regrettable that we must cancel the event due to weather conditions.”
Meaning: This phrase expresses a sense of sorrow or disappointment about a situation that could have been avoided.
Usage: It’s often used in formal contexts like announcements, business correspondence, or official statements.

12. It’s a shame that

Example: “It’s a shame that we couldn’t collaborate on the project due to scheduling conflicts.”
Meaning: This expression shows disappointment or regret, often in a somewhat softer tone.
Usage: Common in casual conversations when expressing disappointment about something that didn’t work out.

13. It saddens me to say

Example: “It saddens me to say that our team did not meet the target for this quarter.”
Meaning: This phrase emphasizes the speaker’s emotional reaction to delivering bad news.
Usage: Often used in formal settings or when delivering news that is disappointing or upsetting.

14. With regret

Example: “With regret, we must inform you that the position has already been filled.”
Meaning: This is a polite and formal way of conveying regret while announcing unfortunate news.
Usage: Common in professional emails or official letters, especially when delivering bad news or turning down an offer.

15. It’s disheartening that

Example: “It’s disheartening that we weren’t able to meet the project deadline.”
Meaning: This phrase conveys a strong sense of disappointment and discouragement about a situation.
Usage: Often used in formal communications, such as business reports or professional emails, when expressing sadness over an unsatisfactory outcome.

16. It pains me to inform you

Example: “It pains me to inform you that we have decided to end our partnership.”
Meaning: This expression adds an extra layer of emotion, indicating that delivering the bad news is difficult for the speaker.
Usage: Suitable for formal announcements, especially when breaking the news of a difficult or unfortunate situation.

17. It’s lamentable that

Example: “It’s lamentable that we weren’t able to secure enough funding for the project.”
Meaning: This phrase conveys a deep sense of regret or sorrow about something that could have been avoided.
Usage: Often used in formal communications or when discussing setbacks in professional or serious contexts.

18. It’s unfortunate to note

Example: “It’s unfortunate to note that the event has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.”
Meaning: This phrase is a polite way of noting something regrettable or negative.
Usage: Common in formal announcements, business reports, or any communication that requires a neutral yet regretful tone.

19. It’s with a heavy heart that

Example: “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our office.”
Meaning: This phrase conveys a profound sense of sorrow or grief when delivering bad news.
Usage: Often used in formal settings, especially in announcements that require a more emotional or serious tone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, unfortunately, life is full of unexpected turns. Unfortunately, setbacks are inevitable, but how we handle them is what matters. Using words like unfortunately helps express understanding and compassion. When delivering tough news, it softens the message.

The next time you need to share disappointing news, remember to use unfortunately. It can make a big difference in how the message is received. You might also consider alternatives like “I’m afraid” or “regrettably.” These words show care and keep the conversation respectful. Unfortunately, not everything goes as planned, but with the right words, we can make it easier for others to understand.