What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inauspicious
Example
The team's inauspicious start to the season did not bode well for their chances of making the playoffs. [inauspicious: adjective]
Example
The black cat crossing their path was seen as an inauspicious sign for the day ahead. [inauspicious: adjective]
unfortunate
Example
It's unfortunate that we won't be able to attend the wedding due to our conflicting schedule. [unfortunate: adjective]
Example
The unfortunate victim of the accident was rushed to the hospital for treatment. [unfortunate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfortunate is more commonly used than inauspicious in everyday language. Unfortunate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while inauspicious is less common and refers to a more specific type of negative situation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inauspicious and unfortunate?
Inauspicious is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while unfortunate is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.