fortunately

word · lemma: fortunate

/ˈfɔɹtʃənətɫi/
FOR-chuh-nit-lee
/fˈɔːtʃənətli/
FAW-chuh-nit-lee

Definition

Used to say that something good happened or that a bad situation was avoided. It often comments on the whole sentence rather than describing how an action was done.

Usage & Nuances

Most common in sentence position like 'Fortunately, ...'. It is a sentence adverb, so it usually expresses the speaker’s attitude. More formal and written than 'luckily' in some contexts, though both are common.

Example Sentences

Fortunately, the bus arrived on time.

basic

Fortunately, I had my keys with me.

basic

I thought I deleted the file, but fortunately I had a backup.

natural

The dog was sick, but fortunately it is better now.

basic

Fortunately, no one was hurt in the accident.

natural

We got there late, but fortunately they were still serving food.

natural