22 Other Ways to Say “Unfortunately”

“Unfortunately” is a term commonly used to introduce bad news or express regret about a situation. Here are 22 alternative ways to convey a similar meaning:

1. Regrettably

• Example: Regrettably, the event has been canceled due to bad weather.
• Explanation: Conveys disappointment about a situation with a formal tone.

2. I’m sorry to inform you

• Example: I’m sorry to inform you that we’re unable to fulfill your order at this time.
• Explanation: A polite and personal way to introduce unfortunate information.

3. It’s disappointing to say

• Example: It’s disappointing to say, but we won’t be able to proceed as planned.
• Explanation: Highlights personal disappointment in being the bearer of bad news.

4. To our dismay

• Example: To our dismay, we’ve found that the part you need is no longer in stock.
• Explanation: Suggests communal regret or concern about the situation.

5. Sadly

• Example: Sadly, the performance will have to be rescheduled.
• Explanation: A succinct way of expressing sorrow about the given circumstances.

6. It’s unfortunate that

• Example: It’s unfortunate that this unforeseen issue has arisen.
• Explanation: Acknowledges the negative nature of the event or circumstance directly.

7. We’re sorry to say

• Example: We’re sorry to say that the workshop has been overbooked.
• Explanation: Reflects regret in having to deliver negative news.

8. It is with regret that

• Example: It is with regret that we must announce the departure of our CEO.
• Explanation: Portrays a formal and solemn disclosure of bad news.

9. We regret to inform you

• Example: We regret to inform you that your application has been declined.
• Explanation: A formal prelude to negative information, a classic in rejection notifications.

10. Disappointingly

• Example: Disappointingly, the team failed to qualify for the finals this year.
• Explanation: Underlines disappointment or a letdown in circumstances.

11. Unhappily

• Example: Unhappily, we must reduce our staffing levels this quarter.
• Explanation: Conveys sadness associated with delivering unfortunate news.

12. Alas

• Example: Alas, the manuscript was not accepted by the publisher.
• Explanation: A somewhat poetic or archaic way to express misfortune or regret.

13. It’s with a heavy heart

• Example: It’s with a heavy heart that we close the doors of our historic shop.
• Explanation: Indicates deep sadness or difficulty in making an announcement.

14. I regret to say

• Example: I regret to say that the item you wanted is out of stock.
• Explanation: Apologetically introduces the unfortunate reality of the situation.

15. It pains me to say

• Example: It pains me to say that your pet did not make it through the night.
• Explanation: Expresses that delivering the news causes personal emotional pain.

16. Crestfallen to inform you

• Example: We are crestfallen to inform you of the cancellation of our annual festival.
• Explanation: Suggests being extremely disheartened while sharing the negative news.

17. It’s disheartening to report

• Example: It’s disheartening to report that our funding bid was unsuccessful.
• Explanation: Emphasizes the emotional impact of the news, focusing on the effect of the letdown.

18. Much to our regret

• Example: Much to our regret, the project has not been approved.
• Explanation: Shows that the information is contrary to desires or expectations, with regret.

19. To everyone’s disappointment

• Example: To everyone’s disappointment, the guest speaker has withdrawn.
• Explanation: Conveys collective disappointment regarding an unfavorable update.

20. Our sincere apologies, but

• Example: Our sincere apologies, but the flight has been delayed.
• Explanation: Expresses regret before delivering some unfavorable news.

21. With sadness

• Example: With sadness, we announce the end of our partnership with XYZ company.
• Explanation: Indicates an emotional state of sorrow preceding the announcement.

22. After careful consideration

• Example: After careful consideration, we have decided not to move forward with the merger.
• Explanation: Conveys that unfortunate news follows thoughtful deliberation.

Each variant offers a different nuance, some being more formal and others displaying personal or collective emotion. These phrases can set the tone for the information to follow and show empathy towards those affected by the unfortunate circumstances.