fortunately
- 1Used to express that it is or was fortunate that something happened or is the case.
Fortunately, no one was injured when the shelf collapsed.
The flight was delayed, but fortunately we still made our connection.
Similarluckily, happily, thankfully, mercifully
Oppositeunfortunately, unluckily, sadly, regrettably
Note
A comment adverb that passes judgment on a whole statement instead of describing how something was done, which sets it apart from the manner sense. It can open a clause, sit after an auxiliary (has fortunately agreed), or follow and, as in P.G. Wodehouse's The Mating Season (1949). Add for to name who benefits: fortunately for Sam. For emphasis it can even be repeated and intensified: fortunately, very fortunately.
Fortunately for the hikers, the storm held off until they reached the hut.
She had fortunately kept a copy of the contract.
- 2In a way marked or favored by good luck.
The negotiations concluded fortunately for both sides, with each gaining what it most needed.
Few towns on the coast were as fortunately situated as Millport, sheltered from winter storms by a ring of hills.
Similarfavorably, happily, luckily, advantageously
Oppositeunfavorably, unluckily, unfortunately
Practice
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Origin
Formed from "fortunate" combined with the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."