What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
regrettable
Example
It's regrettable that we couldn't attend the wedding due to unforeseen circumstances. [regrettable: adjective]
Example
The company's decision to lay off employees was regrettable and caused a lot of hardship. [regrettable: adjective]
unfortunate
Example
It's unfortunate that the concert got canceled due to bad weather. [unfortunate: adjective]
Example
The accident was unfortunate and caused a lot of damage. [unfortunate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfortunate is more commonly used than regrettable in everyday language. Unfortunate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while regrettable is less common and may be considered more formal or academic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between regrettable and unfortunate?
Regrettable is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while unfortunate can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
