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unlucky

B1
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌnlˈʌki/

US

  • /ənˈləki/

Description

We all have those days when things just don't go our way: a dropped phone, a missed bus, or a spilled coffee. When someone is unlucky, it means bad things seem to happen to them more often than usual. It's more than just one bad moment; it suggests a pattern of things going wrong. A black cat crossing your path might be seen as an unlucky sign, and some people believe certain numbers, like 13, are unlucky too. But being unlucky isn't always about superstition. Sometimes it simply means facing a series of unfortunate events beyond anyone's control. Think of the main character in many stories who keeps having bad luck despite trying their best.

Examples

  1. 1

    Travel

    We were unlucky and missed the last train home.

  2. 2

    Sports result

    They were unlucky to lose after playing so well.

    • Pattern

      unlucky to + bad result

      the bad result feels undeserved

  3. 3

    Injuries

    She's been really unlucky with injuries this season.

    • Pattern

      unlucky with + problem/area

      often having bad luck there

  4. 4

    Superstition

    Some people think 13 is an unlucky number.

  5. 5

    Bad timing

    I was unlucky enough to get food poisoning on the first day of the trip.

    • Pattern

      unlucky enough to + verb

      unfortunately ended up in a bad situation

  6. 6

    Romantic relationships

    He always jokes that he's unlucky in love.

    • Phrase

      unlucky in love

      often having bad luck in romantic relationships

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • unluckyadjective