What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lamentably
Example
Lamentably, the company had to lay off several employees due to financial difficulties. [lamentably: adverb]
Example
The team lost the game, lamentably, despite their best efforts. [lamentably: adverb]
unfortunately
Example
Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend the party this weekend. [unfortunately: adverb]
Example
The weather forecast predicts rain for the entire week, unfortunately. [unfortunately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfortunately is more commonly used than lamentably in everyday language. Unfortunately is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lamentably is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lamentably and unfortunately?
Lamentably is more formal and less commonly used in casual conversation than unfortunately. Therefore, unfortunately is more appropriate for informal contexts, while lamentably is more suitable for formal writing or speeches.