misfortune - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
misfortune Word Meanings
- bad luck or an unfortunate event
- a condition of misadventure or sorrow
- an instance of hardship or adversity
misfortune Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
misfortune Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/mɪsˈfɔːtʃən/
US
/mɪsˈfɔrtʃən/
misfortune Word Etymology
Root: mis- (wrongly) + fortune (luck). Historical origin: Latin 'fortuna' (luck) → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person looking at a broken fortune cookie, realizing that bad luck is on the horizon.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Misfortune is a noun that covers events or conditions that bring bad luck, sorrow, or hardship. It can refer to a single unlucky incident, such as losing a job after a storm, or to a broader streak of adversity that feels beyond personal control. The word carries a slightly formal or literary tone, more common in storytelling, reporting, or philosophical discussion than everyday chat. The etymology traces to mis- (wrongly) + fortune (luck), with roots in Latin fortuna and Old French, reinforcing the sense that misfortune is luck taken in the wrong direction. Remember the memory image of a person staring at a shattered fortune cookie, recognizing that fortune can turn ill.
Usage Reminders
- - Use misfortune for notable negative events, not every minor glitch.
- - It sounds more formal or literary than everyday 'bad luck'.
- - Pair with adjectives like severe, ongoing, or unforeseen to show degree.
- - It usually describes events outside the person’s fault, not personal character.
- - Consider synonyms such as adversity or hardship in casual contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Misfortune = bad luck in every situation
- It describes a person's character rather than an event
- It is used for trivial annoyances
- Fortune always means luck, so misfortune is just opposite luck
- You say 'to have misfortune' in modern English
Thinking Differences
English speakers often label misfortune as a formal, sometimes narrative tone. Learners tend to overextend it to every minor setback or confuse it with simple bad luck, so reserve it for meaningful negative events and use 'adversity' or 'setback' for lighter situations.
Learning Tips
- Read misfortune in literary or formal writing to sense its tone.
- Compare with 'bad luck' in everyday speech to choose the right register.
- Pair with adjectives like severe, ongoing, or unforeseen to show degree.
- Use with phrases like 'misfortune befalls' for dramatic effect.
- Practice synonyms: adversity, hardship, misadventure.
- Avoid using misfortune for minor inconveniences; save it for weightier events.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'misfortune'?
A.Luck
B.Fortune
C.Bad luck
D.Opportunity
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'misfortune' correctly?
A.His misfortune turned into a successful opportunity.
B.She won the lottery, a great misfortune.
C.The misfortune brought unexpected benefits.
D.They celebrated her misfortune with a party.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'misfortune'?
A.Luck
B.Fortune
C.Catastrophe
D.Success
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'misfortune'?
A.Success
B.Disaster
C.Failure
D.Tragedy
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a real-life example of 'misfortune'?
A.Losing a loved one in an accident
B.Finding money on the street
C.Getting a promotion at work
D.Winning a prize in a contest
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