misfortune
UK: /ˌmɪsˈfɔːtʃuːn/ | US: /ˌmɪsˈfɔːrtʃən/
n. bad luck or an unlucky event
n. a state of adversity or distress
misfortune = mis<bad/wrong> + fortune<luck/chance>
- mis: A prefix of Germanic origin, meaning "bad," "wrong," or "ill." It often negates or reverses the meaning of the root word (e.g., "misunderstand," "mislead").
- fortune: From Latin fortuna (chance, luck, fate), derived from fors (luck). In English, it retains the sense of luck or prosperity (e.g., "good fortune").
Etymology Origin:
The word "misfortune" combines the negative prefix "mis-" with "fortune," reflecting the concept of "bad luck." Its structure mirrors other English words where "mis-" alters the root's meaning negatively. The Latin root fortuna originally referred to fate or chance, evolving into the modern sense of luck or prosperity. The pairing of "mis-" and "fortune" logically creates a term for adverse outcomes.
Losing his job was a great misfortune for his family.
She bore her misfortunes with quiet dignity.
The project's failure was due to sheer misfortune, not poor planning.
He blamed his misfortune on bad decisions in his youth.
Despite her misfortunes, she remained optimistic about the future.